Evening of Comedy to Honor Newtown Resident Battling A.L.S.

Newtown, CT (May 10, 2019) – HARK ALS is partnering with friends and family of Newtown resident Laurena McCarthy to host an evening of comedy to celebrate and support the McCarthy family as they face the devastating effects of advanced stage Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease). The fundraising event will take place on Saturday evening, June 15 from 6:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. at the Palace Theatre, 165 Main Street in Danbury. The event is open to the community.

Laurena McCarthy is a long-time resident of Newtown, where she lives with her husband Bill and their 12 and 23-year-old sons. Laurena was diagnosed with ALS in August 2017, after experiencing weakness in one of her arms. Prior to her illness, she was a teacher in the Danbury school system for over 20 years. During summer breaks, Laurena founded and ran multiple camps including a farm camp for underprivileged inner-city children and a science camp in New Milford.

The event will feature a short film, followed by three comedians: Comedian Dave Reilly, who has appeared on TV and performed across the country; A.J. Mann from the Chaz and A.J. morning radio show on 99.1 PLR); and Artie D.B. Light fare, cash bar, silent auctions and raffles prizes will be offered throughout the evening. The proceeds will go towards costly ALS-related expenses for the McCarthy family, including handicap-accessible home renovations, a wheelchair accessible van and medical equipment and supplies.

Tickets are $40 in advance, $45 at the door and can be purchased at https://livelovelaughlaurena.eventbrite.com. Donations including gift cards and silent auction and raffle prizes from individuals and local businesses will be gratefully accepted. Corporate sponsorships are also available. For more information, please contact harkals.ct@gmail.com. Contributions to the event are tax-deductible to the fullest extent of the law.

Hark-ALS is a recognized 501( c) 3 charitable organization that raises awareness about ALS and assists families struggling with the catastrophic financial burden of this cruel terminal disease. To learn more about Hark-ALS, please visit www.hark-als.org.