Be pain-free with laughter ...

With each cancer operation, I found that laughter was the best pain killer.  I asked friends not to send me flowers, but instead send me comedy dvd's.  I was surprised with the variety of dvd's I received, from classics series "The Little Rascals" to unforgettable movies "Some Light It Hot."  

Here are some reasons why laughter is important for everybody, not just cancer patients: 

• Laughter relaxes the whole body. A good, hearty laugh relieves physical tension and stress, leaving your muscles relaxed for up to 45 minutes after.
  
• Laughter boosts the immune system. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease.
  
• Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.
  
• Laughter protects the heart. Laughter improves the function of blood vessels and increases blood flow, which can help protect you against a heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.
  
  
  
  
  
  Whenever you're having a challenging day dealing with cancer, remember to tickle your funny bone.