Kevin Knox was supposed to die four years ago.
After fighting cancer on and off for the last 18 years, though, he's learned that humor can be the best medicine.
"You learn to laugh at everything," Knox said.
Knox will spread laughter next Friday in Andover when he and fellow comic Dave Russo of Malden perform in a benefit at the Wyndham Hotel in Andover. The show is a fund-raiser for Caritas Holy Family Hospital's Cancer Management Center in Methuen.
Knox, whose act is very topical, isn't worried about coming up with material.
"We're in a lot of trouble — it's a good time to be a comic," he said. "The jokes write themselves."
The night of comedy was organized by Bob Gillis of Methuen, who works as a contractor at Holy Family. Gillis is a big fan of the hospital, and has worked there as well.
Several years ago, Gillis worked at the former comedy hot spot, Grill 93, in Andover. He contacted some of the Grill's more popular acts and recruited them for the show.
In addition to Knox, who has been featured on Denis Leary's FX show "Rescue Me," and Russo, from the Wayne Newton-hosted reality hit "The Entertainer," there will be another comic and a disc jockey for dancing after the show. The third comic has not yet been signed.
"For both these guys to share the stage like that, for this fundraiser, is really great of them," Gillis said. "With three Boston comics and a DJ for $25, it's a great night of entertainment. It's a chance for people to not only get entertained, but to give something back to the hospital."
According to Russo, formerly of Methuen, participating in this fundraiser was a no-brainer. He had successful knee surgery at Holy Family, and the hospital holds a fond place in his heart.
He wanted to work it into his philanthropic efforts.
"I give a lot of money to Charity — she's a dancer in Las Vegas," Russo said.
If you go
What: A night of comedy and dance
When: Friday, Aug. 1. Doors open at 7 p.m. and show starts at 8 p.m.
Where: Wyndham Hotel in Andover
Admission: $25. Call 978-687-0156, ext. 2104, or purchase tickets at the door.
