Damon Harris was a talented and popular singer who rose to fame as a member of the legendary Motown group The Temptations in the early 1970s. He was known for his smooth and high-pitched falsetto voice, which he used to great effect on songs like “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone” and “Masterpiece”. Harris was also the youngest member of The Temptations, joining the group at the age of 20 after auditioning for them at the Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C. [according to Wikipedia]
However, Harris’ life and career were cut short by a devastating disease that he had been fighting for 14 years: prostate cancer. Harris died on February 18, 2013, at the age of 62, at the Joseph Richey Hospice in Baltimore, Maryland. [according to Billboard]
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What is Prostate Cancer and How Does It Affect Men?
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that affects the prostate gland, a small organ that produces fluid for semen and helps with urine control. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, especially older men. According to the American Cancer Society, about one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, and about one in 41 will die from it. [according to American Cancer Society]
Prostate cancer can cause various symptoms, such as difficulty urinating, blood in urine or semen, pain in the lower back or pelvis, erectile dysfunction, or bone pain. However, some men may not have any symptoms at all, or may only experience them when the cancer is advanced. Therefore, it is important for men to get regular screenings for prostate cancer, such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test or a digital rectal exam (DRE). These tests can help detect prostate cancer early, when it is more likely to be treated successfully. [according to Mayo Clinic]
How Did Damon Harris Discover and Treat His Prostate Cancer?
Damon Harris was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1999, when he was 49 years old. He had gone to the doctor for a routine checkup, and was shocked to learn that his PSA level was very high, indicating a possible prostate cancer. He then underwent a biopsy, which confirmed the diagnosis. [according to Baltimore Sun]
Harris decided to undergo surgery to remove his prostate gland, hoping to cure the cancer. However, the surgery was not successful, as the cancer had already spread to other parts of his body. He then tried various treatments, such as hormone therapy, chemotherapy, and radiation, but none of them could stop the cancer from growing. He also suffered from several side effects, such as impotence, incontinence, and depression. [according to Baltimore Sun]
Harris did not give up hope, though. He continued to perform and record music, and also became an activist for prostate cancer awareness and prevention. He founded the Damon Harris Cancer Foundation, which aimed to educate men, especially African American men, about the importance of getting screened and treated for prostate cancer. He also participated in several events and campaigns, such as Stand Up to Cancer and the Prostate Cancer Foundation. He wanted to use his fame and experience to help other men who were facing the same disease. [according to Baltimore Sun]
How Did Damon Harris Die and What Was His Legacy?
Damon Harris died on February 18, 2013, surrounded by his family and friends. He had been in hospice care for several weeks, as his condition had deteriorated. He was cremated, and his ashes were scattered in the Atlantic Ocean. [according to Baltimore Sun]
Harris left behind a legacy of music and activism. He was remembered by his fans and peers as a talented and charismatic singer, who contributed to some of the most iconic songs of The Temptations and Motown. He was also praised for his courage and dedication to raising awareness and funds for prostate cancer research and treatment. He inspired many men to take charge of their health and seek help when needed. He was a role model and a hero for many people who were affected by prostate cancer. [according to Baltimore Sun]