(L-R), Quinton Greene, Jeff Klein, Johnny B., John Jacobs, Matt Fernandez, Rahn Hortman, Steve Miller, Ian Gutoskie, Cam Bertrand, Side Splitters owner Brian Thompson, and J.B. Ball helped raise about $7000 for Miller’s cancer battle. Credit: Photo by Brian Thompson

Last Sunday night, a roomful of laughter for comedian Steve Miller raised about $7,000, and the spirits of a local who’s going through a lot right now.

“It was overwhelming to realize how much support I have around me,” Miller said about the show at Side Splitters in Tampa, which sold out and featured performances from many of his friends.

As many in the Tampa Bay comedy scene know, Miller—who has contributed to Creative Loafing Tampa Bay—is going through an expensive and emotional battle with bladder cancer, so the money comes at the right time. A GoFundMe page that’s 75% of the way to its $20,000 goal is also active and accepting donations.

Several local headliners donated a few minutes to the show to make it special, and Miller himself told jokes for about 20 minutes. In addition to the funds, Miller appreciated the outpouring of affection from both the comedians on stage and the audience who came out to support.

“From the comics who donated their time and talent, to the friends and family who showed up, I don’t think I’ve ever been surrounded by that much love,” he said. “I felt like I got to go to my own funeral, but everyone was happy.”

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