Can't Help But Laugh: INTRO

Hi My name is Greg Galifianakis. That's my cousin Frank. You probably know my famous Uncle, Nick Galifianakis, US Congressman from North Carolina's 4th District. This isn't about him. This is about my prostate. But let's back up a sec and see how we got here. I grew up in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, home of Nascar, Moonshine, Merlefest and my parents Harry and Mary Francis. My Dad was the son of Greek immigrants and my mother's Scotch Irish family had been living in the shadow of the blue ridge mountains for generations. Rumor has it, the day I was born my cousin Frank was there, ready to catch me when I got pooted out of my Mom. He's always been like a big brother to me, and we've been inseparable ever since. Early in my life, I was known as "The Beast". I had red hair the color of a radio flyer wagon and so many freckles my face looked rusted. My Uncle Pete would often tell me that I wasn't really Greek and that Mom had slept with the milk man, Tyler Timmons of Flavor Rich Dairy. Even though I never got above a C average in high school, I did manage to attend my Dad's alma mater, North Carolina State University. It only took me 10 years to graduate with a degree in Sociology, which I put to immediate good use by taking a job as a mobile home salesperson- selling single wides and double wides. I had all types of jobs. Even ended up managing an online flower company, which I hated, but that's how I met my amazing wife, Gia. Along the way, we made some amazing memories, and I ate an amazing amount of food, topping out at 350 pounds. After a serious heart scare that converted me to veganism almost overnight, I started focusing on my health and lost over 130 pounds. For the first time, I felt like I was settling into my true self. Then one day at 54, while minding my own business, I was diagnosed with Prostate Cancer. I was not ready for that surprise.  Cancer has a way of changing you. And it certainly changed me. I thought I was living before my diagnosis, but I soon learned I wasn't living at all. I also learned that most men don't really talk about prostate cancer. Even if most of us will get it in our lifetime. And believe me I know why they don't. But I also know why they should. And lucky for y'all, I'm an open book. So come along as I recount my journey with my cousin Frank, warts and all. I hope if you're feeling alone, you'll fell less alone. If you have a loved one that's going through this, I hope our conversation will give you a little glimpse into their experience. And I hope no matter what your reason for listening is, we manage to make you laugh. Because sometimes it's all you can do.