February Newsletter – How Cancer Inspired a Comedian

Hi Friends,

This past month was sad for the Canadian comedy community. We lost three wonderful people; Paul Smith (Toronto), Mike Gotli (Winnipeg) and Stu Scott (Vancouver).

Recently, one of my students (Ray) from my Second City stand-up class revealed that he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer in his spine. He signed up for the course anyway.

As it turned out, the course changed Ray’s perspective on life immensely.

He said he was so overwhelmed with gratitude for his life. Comedy helped Ray stay positive. It helped him keep moving forward. Also, he said, he doesn’t take people or time for granted anymore.

Ray said, “We always think we have enough time to compliment someone, saying, ‘Oh, I’ll do it the next time.’ ”

He says now he’s conscious of the fact that there may not be a ‘next’ time.

Ray is currently being treated at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto. Good luck Ray! xo

As I mention in my keynote, ‘Relieving Stress with Humour’, pets are great ways to beat stress.

Studies have shown that dogs, in particular, can lower our risk of depression, lower our blood pressure and increase our rate of recovery and longevity after a heart attack.

#DOGSTAR is a pet project (no pun intended). I like to visit local shelters and use my contacts (and sexual favours) to reach out to the committee and help get the word out about these wonderful creatures.

Argo & Pete

During my visit to the Toronto Humane Society this weekend, I spotted Argo ( a three year old Aussie Cattle dog) and Pete ( a 1 year old Gordon setter/ Sheppard cross). They came in separately but they went home together! A really nice family adopted both dogs.

Also, a major shout out to the fantastic person who adopted Shadow. Shadow was abandoned by his family in October and waited and waited for a new home.

This is the case that haunted me every night. He was such a beautiful dog that just needed a second chance. That chance came this past month when and experienced owner adopted Shadow. Yay!

Thanks to Humble and Fred and producer Eileen Ross for letting me visit and spread the word. Stay tuned. I’ll be on the show again next month with some new #DOGSTAR candidates.

We both recently spoke at HRPA 2014! Chris (because we ARE on a first name basis) said he could barely follow my vapor trails – just kidding. It was a great time. Thanks to all the staff and volunteers who made it happen. Chris wants to know if his restraining order on me applies to Space, as well? Hey, Chris- remember, in Space, no one can hear you scream.

Just in case you ever lose power again (or electrical bills really soar to pay for downed lines) hold onto this video. It might come in handy!

‘From the Stage to the Page – Life Lessons From Four Funny Ladies’  is an excellent source for fun and practical stress busting tips for work and at home.

Don’t just take my word for it. Look what the following people have to say.