Patients treat serious illness as laughing matter

By ULA ILNYTZKY, Associated Press Writer Ula Ilnytzky, Associated Press Writer

NEW YORK – The off-color jokes flew around the room. As the anecdotes got bawdier, the laughter intensified. Some recited from memory, others read from notebooks they brought along.

The setting for the hilarity was the Montefiore Einstein Cancer Center at Montefiore Hospital. The participants were cancer patients, some with advanced stages of the illness.

They were taking part in the hospital's monthly "Strength Through Laughter" therapy. It is one of several types of laughter or humor therapy being offered by medical facilities around the country for patients diagnosed with cancer or other chronic diseases.

The programs feature joke sessions, clown appearances and funny movies.

While the verdict is out on whether laughter plays a role in healing, the American Cancer Society and other medical experts say it reduces stress and promotes relaxation by lowering blood pressure, improves breathing and increases muscle function...

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The Scripture does say, "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." Pro 17:22 (ESV)

Why should we find this medicine as a last resort?

Laugh.

shalomed