Laughs for Danny at Brokerage Comedy Club

For young Danny Alini, the last year and a half has certainly been tough, but the 4-year-old soldier never lets his misfortunes bring him down, and his courage has been quite the inspiration to those around him.

Alini was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in August 2009 and has since undergone multiple rounds of chemotherapy, with approximately two more years of treatment to go.

On Sunday night at the Brokerage Comedy Club, things were made a little easier for Alini with a fundraiser in his name.

"He is a real trooper," said Danny's father, Tommy Alini. "He never complains and he really deals with going to the cancer center like an adult."

Over the course of Danny's treatment, the Alini family has worked with the John Theissen Children's Foundation and has crossed paths with many families who are suffering from similar circumstances. "You really meet some amazing people," Alini said. 

Two families stuck out in particular.

In addition to raising money for his son, Alini donated a portion of the night's proceeds to two 12-year-old girls, Jada McLean of the Bronx and Julia Nofi of Bellport, who are undergoing cancer treatments as well. McLean is currently preparing for a bone marrow procedure and will be hospitalized for an undetermined amount of time.

A handful of well-known comedians collaborated for the cause. Harry Freedman opened the show, followed by Brokerage Comedy Club regulars Joe Devito, Joe Bronzi and Keith Anthony. 

"I think these are a great way to raise money," Freedman said of the fundraiser. "The fact he [Alini] is raising money for other kids is great. When someone takes something that's hard in their life and turns it into a positive to help others, I always have a deal of admiration for them."

The Alini family is forever grateful for the support from their friends, families and the local community, along with everything the Brokerage Comedy Club contributed.

"It was truly a wonderful night with a ton of laughs and fun for three great kids," Alini said.

Alini added that he is looking to host a second fundraiser in the summer and hopes to donate to even more families next time around.