DORCHESTER — 300 guests attended the “Laughter Heals” comedy night fundraiser to support the work of the Maura Wilkins Foundation. The event was held on Nov. 7, 2024 at Florian Hall in Dorchester.

Comic Lenny Clarke, one of the night’s special guests, presented Joyce Hogan with the 2024 Light Bearer Award. Hogan was honored for her love, service, and dedication to helping people in recovery. She is beautifully depicted in the “Light Bearer” poem, and is an extraordinary soul who quietly weaves threads of humanity into an often inhumane world. With her radiant smile and a heart full of love, she easily expresses both laughter and tears. She is a whisperer of hope. Everyone who meets Joyce walks away feeling better about themselves and filled with hope. She truly is our unsung hero.

The event will featured a fantastic lineup of comedians, including the hilarious Tony V., Clarke, and the pharmacist Artie Januario. Additionally, there will be raffle items such as four tickets and backstage passes to the Dropkick Murphys St. Patrick’s Day concert, four BC Football game tickets (the day after Thanksgiving) with a parking pass, and two tickets for the BC vs Harvard hockey game, along with other exciting prizes.

The Maura Wilkins Foundation, established in memory of Maura Wilkins, born in County Sligo, Ireland, and a beloved resident of Milton for over 40 years, is making a significant impact in our community. The Foundation’s mission is to provide funding for individuals struggling with alcohol and substance abuse addictions to attend recovery retreats and sober events. These connections are life-changing, helping individuals strengthen their recovery programs and prevent relapses.

All photos by Bill Brett