Malcolm Myatt The Briton Who Always Laughs Country: Great Britain

Content:

1. The Man Who's Always Laughing
2. The Stroke
3. A Change in Disposition
4. The Happiest Man in the World
5. Life after the Stroke
6. A Medical Anomaly

The Man Who's Always Laughing

Stroke Survivor Malcolm Myatt

Malcolm Myatt, a 74-year-old Briton, is known as "Britain's Happiest Man." Forever smiling, no life's challenges can seem to dampen his spirits. Yet the source of his boundless joy is bittersweet: a stroke.

The Stroke

In January 2004, Myatt suffered a severe stroke while having breakfast. After 19 weeks in the hospital, he survived but was left with lasting effects. Prior to the stroke, Myatt was healthy and a jovial truck driver. His wife of 69 years, Kath, never anticipated him becoming a stroke victim.

A Change in Disposition

Myatt had always been an optimist, but after the stroke, he became even more cheerful. Despite paralysis on one side, medication, and an uncertain future, Myatt found himself laughing uncontrollably. The stroke had affected the part of his brain responsible for negative emotional responses, leaving him only with positive emotions.

The Happiest Man in the World

Myatt was quickly hailed as "The Happiest Man in the World." Without the burden of sadness or worry, life for him became an endless stream of joy. Yet, some found his constant state of elation unsettling. Undeterred, Myatt embraced his new outlook.

Life after the Stroke

Despite the stroke's physical challenges, Myatt and Kath remain close. His laughter is contagious, bringing joy to those around him. However, at a friend's funeral, Kath struggled to contain Myatt's bubbling laughter.

A Medical Anomaly

Myatt's case is considered highly unusual, as stroke victims often become more withdrawn. Nonetheless, he has found happiness in the wake of adversity. While some may question the naturalness of his condition, Myatt remains unperturbed, enjoying life to the fullest.

Record holders (unusual records)

Gil Azevedo	Verdun Hayes	Joy Trussler
Salustiano (Shorty) Sanchez-Blazquez	Fu Suqing	Carson Huey-You