Just 3 weeks ago comedian Kai Humphries issued a rallying cry to the legion of followers who support Punch-Drunk Comedy – a South East Northumberland comedy club with a difference. He asked 100 people to step up and pledge to raise £1000 each to enable 3 year-old Kian Musgrove from Newcastle to travel to New York for lifesaving cancer treatment. As of today the merry band of fundraisers – mainly based in Blyth but with some members scattered much further afield – have collectively raised over £40,000 and have played their part in a storyline where Kian now has enough money to travel to the US and begin his treatment – something which looked unlikely just 2 short months ago when his fund sat at just half of the required £500k!
Kian’s fundraising – which had already been hugely successful, raising almost £250,000 in the 18 months since he was first diagnosed with the aggressive form of childhood cancer – gained momentum in early February when 800 people came together in Blyth, Northumberland for Fight for Kian; an evening of amateur boxing between 20 top comedians, hosted by Blyth-based Punch-Drunk Comedy, the baby of Kai Humphries and his brother Gav. With the involvement of a cross-section of the UK comedy industry including host Rhod Gilbert, the event developed into a carnival and raised another £30,000 towards the £500,000 total that Kian needed in order to begin treatment in New York.
Since this event a dramatic influx of donations including a second £40,000 from a supporter in Luxembourg and £25,000 from Simon Cowell has seen Kian’s initial £500,000 target reached, meaning that he will definitely be going to America for treatment!
He still needs people’s help, though – as any complications or unexpected hospital admissions (which could happen as a result of anything from a common cold) – will cost thousands of pounds more.
So this is why the 100 Heroes are not done yet!
Throughout this month they’re suffering through all sorts of challenges. Donna Michelle and her pals are taking on a sponsored long-distance bike ride, after the Weatheritt’s from Cambois completed theirs’ at the weekend – and Caroline Rogers and Freema Chambers have undergone full head-shaves. The incredibly brave Lindsey Davies is making a sponsored aeroplane flight despite her extreme fear of flying – and huge comedy fan Jen Hamilton even put herself through a spot on Red Raw at The Edinburgh Stand, with absolutely no experience, to raise money towards her pal Jojo Sutherland’s collection!
With other challenges like these and a whole host of events taking place throughout the rest of the month, they’re right on track to raise their phenomenal combined target of £100,000! Punch-Drunk plans to celebrate the news that Kian will get his treatment as well as honouring the incredible ongoing work of the 100 Heroes at their March gigs in Blyth, Bedlington & Ashington on the 21st, 22nd & 23rd – where none other than Gary Delaney, Jarred Christmas and Damien Clark will be providing the entertainment! You’ll find all of the details about the events by searching ‘Punch-Drunk Comedy – Blyth’ on Facebook and you can reserve tickets for payment on the door, by calling or texting 07738663379. If you’d like to make a contribution to Kian’s treatment fund, you can do that, right here – www.kapipal.com./caringforkian