Cancer and Comedy: Healing Through hope and Humor
Dr. Brad Miller
Prostate Cancer Survivor/Thriver, Podcaster, Retired Pastor
In a recent episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER, I interviewed Dr. Brad Miller, a cancer survivor and comedian. Dr. Miller shared his personal journey of being diagnosed with prostate cancer and how he used humor and hope to navigate through his cancer experience. This blog post will delve into the key takeaways from the episode and highlight the importance of finding healing through hope and humor.
Finding Strength in Laughter
Brad emphasized the power of humor in coping with cancer. He shared how laughter and comedy helped him navigate the emotional rollercoaster that comes with a cancer diagnosis. Brad's personal experience and research have shown that humor releases endorphins, improves mental attitude, and provides a much-needed emotional lift during challenging times. He encourages individuals facing cancer to find ways to incorporate humor into their lives, whether it's through watching comedy shows, sharing jokes with friends, or attending comedy events.
"A cheerful heart is good medicine." - Brad Miller
The ACTS Plan
Where are you going? During the podcast episode, Brad introduced the ACTS plan, which stands for taking Action (physical), Connecting to a higher power (spiritual), Thinking with discipline (cognitive), and Serving with love (emotional). This plan serves as a roadmap for individuals to navigate their cancer journey with purpose and intention. The plan encourages individuals to take action by actively participating in their treatment and making necessary lifestyle changes. Connecting with a higher power, whether through prayer, meditation, or other spiritual practices, helps individuals find solace and strength. Thinking with discipline involves developing healthy habits and practices that support physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Lastly, serving others with love allows individuals to find meaning and purpose in their cancer journey, while also making a positive impact on others. Brad is offering a FREE course called, "Healing through Hope and Humor" around this plan. Take the five-day course here to help you cope with cancer on your terms. https://cancerandcomedy.com/free
The Clean Comedy Cancer Benefit
Brad's commitment to serving his community led him to organize the Clean Comedy Cancer Benefit. This event aims to raise funds for cancer research while also spreading awareness about the healing power of humor. The benefit features renowned comedian Rick Roberts, who is also a prostate cancer survivor. Through this event, Brad hopes to bring laughter and joy to his local community, while also supporting a cause close to his heart.
Brad's story and insights shared in the podcast episode highlight the importance of finding healing through hope and humor when facing cancer. By incorporating humor into their lives, individuals can experience emotional upliftment, improved mental attitude, and a sense of connection with others. The ACTS plan provides a practical framework for individuals to navigate their cancer journey with purpose and intention. Additionally, events like the Clean Comedy Cancer Benefit create opportunities for laughter, community support, and raising funds for cancer research. Ultimately, finding strength in laughter and embracing hope can make a significant difference in the lives of those facing cancer.
Learn about the findings from The importance of humor in oncology: a survey of patients undergoing radiotherapy1 conducted in August 2020.
Listen to Brad's inspiring message of healing through hope and humor. Click the episode in the SmartPlayer below, on Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast app.
References
1. Samant R, Balchin K, Cisa-Paré E, Renaud J, Bunch L, McNeil A, Murray S, Meng J. The importance of humour in oncology: a survey of patients undergoing radiotherapy. Curr Oncol. 2020 Aug;27(4):e350-e353. doi: 10.3747/co.27.5875. Epub 2020 Aug 1. PMID: 32905157; PMCID: PMC7467787.
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