A local performer, who’s put more than a few smiles on peoples’ faces, is thanking the public for their support as he undergoes treatment for cancer.

Dave Penny, who is well known for his humourous recitations, ended up in hospital last fall after experiencing trouble breathing.

In retrospect, says Penny, he had been feeling “off” for some time, before he got sick with COVID.

The virus knocked the good out of him, and resulted in an extended stay in hospital on life support, which is what prompted doctors to explore a possible underlying condition.

He was subsequently diagnosed with COVID and pneumonia, which is strange says Penny, because “you don’t end up in the ICU with COVID anymore.” After three weeks the doctor told him “we think there’s an underlying condition, and we think it’s lymphoma.”

A GoFundMe was set up to help with expenses, with an original goal of $3,000 but that figure was surpassed in no time.

Penny is thankful for the care he’s received in hospital during his treatments, and the public support.

Penny is featured on Profiles on VOCM this week. The show airs at 1:30 p.m. today and again tomorrow at 6:00 a.m.