Tracy DeGraaf Show June7

Laugh and the world laughs with you…is the famous line from a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox.  Not to many read the next line..weep and you weep alone. 

For author/speaker Tracy DeGraaf, these words have been the story of her life.

“  The comedy world can be a dark blue world, said DeGraaf.  I hope to help women with depression.  I struggle with depression myself , now just bringing those stories on stage.”

DeGraaf will be bringing her comedy show to New Life Church in New Lenox on Saturday, June 7th.

“ I’ve been doing comedy for about 5 years,  I wrote my book, Laugh Anyway  Mom.  I always wanted to write a book since I was 12 years old.” 

Tracy’s goal waited awhile as she went to college, met her husband, started a family and did she start a family. Five boys in 11 years.  She didn’t know it at the time but her family would be the funniest material to encourage other women.

“I couldn’t write, I couldn’t do anything, I put it on the back burner for 20 years. Once I turned 40, I began to write. “

Write she did, from her boys pole vaulting in the pool to growing a beard in menopause.  Tracy knew it was time to take her life stories to the public.

“ I met a publishing coach, who told me my writing is “ Erma Bombeck” feel of everyday life. Then he told me to do stand up comedy after the release of my book. I thought he was crazy, “DeGraaf added. 

So Tracy took a class at Second City and began doing open mics.

  “ It was challenging, but the audience laughed…and they weren’t my audience.  My audience is moms.  Open mics are in the middle of the week at 9 pm. Moms are at home in bed.  I was entertaining 21 year olds having a good time.  If I can make them laugh I knew I can make moms laugh.”

Her show is more than laughs.  “ At the end of my show, I share the true story of my mom and how she passed away from cancer, how she inspired me to do the best that I can with what I have.  My hope is that the audience can look through the lens of life and see what they have. Comedy is truly tragedy plus time.”

Tracy is available to speak at women’s clubs, churches and chamber meetings. To book Tracy or purchase tickets for upcoming shows visit her at LaughAnywayMom.com. Tickets can also be purchased at both Evilena’s Red Dresser locations in Frankfort.  59 Bankview Drive or 20887 S. LaGrange Rd.