Cancer-free for 20 years now, Burton shares his story to show humor in high doses may help what ails you.
“There’s a close link between humor and humanity,” he said. “When things like this happen, lives get shut down. It’s about not turning it into a diagnosis.”
“Looking for Laughter in All the Wrong Places” will highlight the Community Health Foundation’s annual reception, 5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, March 15, at the Hollenbeck Bayley Creative Arts and Conference Center.
The event is open to everyone. Presale tickets cost $25 each through March 3.
Burton’s career was going well when the diagnosis of high-grade osteosarcoma above the right knee interrupted.
The partial removal of his thighbone and seven months of chemotherapy were part of Burton’s journey. But even having a bone from a cadaver implanted to replace it had comedy instead of grim potential.
“I thought of it as a major shopping experience,” Burton quipped.
He said not to expect a canned talk. Burton prefers to let the mood steer his interaction with the audience, like hanging out with buddies.
“At heart, I’m just a goofball. Enlightenment comes from inside, and I believe in the power of stories and how it affects the people around you,” Burton said.
He looks forward to meeting attendees and enjoys hearing their stories.
For more information on Burton, go to his website at www.sburton.com/.
The event will start with social time including live music, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres followed by the program.
Reservations can be made at the Community Health Foundation office, located at 200 Medical Center Drive, or its website.
After March 3, the admission price rises to $35. Tickets can also be purchased at the door the day of the event.
Contact this contributing writer at bturner004@woh.rr.com.
How to go
What: “Looking for Laughter in All the Wrong Places,” the Community Health Foundation’s annual reception
Where: Hollenbeck Bayley Arts and Conference Center, 275 S. Limestone St., Springfield
When: 5:30-7 p.m. Wednesday, March 15
Admission: $25 before March 3; $35 after March 3
More info: 937-523-7002 or go to www.facebook.com/communityhealthfound
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