Aug. 7, 2006 - Laugh Out Loud!

The prevalence of cancer these days is disturbing as it seems most people know at least one person who has suffered from it. Personally, I do not have enough fingers and toes to count the number of people I know who have been diagnosed with cancer. I recently met yet another, however, this person stands apart from the rest. This is because he is only 14. Daniel came to my work (a book store) in search of a certain series of books that have especially large print. He needed this because he is suffering from Optic Glyoma- an inoperable brain tumour that is reducing his ability to see. Soon he will be completely blind but this does not seem to hinder his sense of humour;

DANIEL:         Why do you think I am so good at golf?

ME:                  Why?

DANIEL:         Because I hit the ball out of sight.

This gorgeous boy’s love of laughter does not stop at dropping one-liners to retail assistants. He recently had a joke book published called “Laugh Out Loud” with contributions from a number of Australian celebrities including Lleyton Hewitt, Anthony Callea, Alicia Molik, Kyle and Jackie O, Andrew Daddo and many more.

All of the proceeds from sales are donated to Camp Quality- an organisation aimed at helping kids with cancer. This organisation offer support to children and their families through recreational, educational, hospital and financial programs.

Daniel not only made me giggle, he also reminded me how lucky I am to be healthy and happy because it takes a very special 14 year old to be one without the other.

If you should find yourself with a spare $9.99 and near a bookstore, I dare say that buying “Laugh Out Loud” would be an excellent and worthwhile way to spend it. I know that owning my autographed copy has made me even happier. Please support a worthy cause .

Camp Quality www.campquality.org.au