R&B Singer Will Downing Diagnosed With Debilitating Disease
Date: 05/10/07 | Singersroom News
Filed under: R&B News, Will Downing
According to reports, R&B vocalist Will Downing has canceled touring for the immediate future after being diagnosed with a disorder called Polymyositis, a debilitating chronic inflammatory disease of the muscles that can possibly lead to the handicap of the affected. Its cause is unknown. Downing, 46, has been hospitalized since January.
Although Polymyositis can occur at any age, it mostly affects adults in their 40s and 50s. It is more common in blacks than in whites, and women are diagnosed more often than men. According to the Mayo Clinic, periods of remission, during which signs and symptoms improve spontaneously, rarely occur in Polymyositis. However, treatment can improve muscle strength and function.
Downing says that he first came down with symptoms over the holidays when he felt extremely tired and sick. He adds that his fear of doctors kept him from discovering what his pain was. However, the singer says he is now in rehabilitation and working to get himself back in shape. He’s moving slowly, but he’s moving nonetheless and is thankful for that and for the fact that his voice so far has not been affected.
Downing says he still plans to release a new CD this September on Peak Records, which was co-founded by Russ Freeman of the Rippingtons.
In 1993, Downing released his fourth album, Love's the Place to Be. Subsequent discs include Moods (1995); Invitation Only (1997); the Gerald Albright collaboration Pleasures of the Night (1998); All the Man You Need (2000); Sensual Journey (2002); Emotions (2003); Christmas, Love and You (2004; and Soul Symphony (2005).
Downing's albums regularly score on the U.S. jazz charts, with both Moods and Pleasures of the Night reaching No. 1 in Billboard. Sensual Journey and Emotions both reached No. 2.
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My prayers are with you and your family. I have all your CD's and listen to them constantly, they are my form of relaxation. Get well, the world needs Will Downing.
Hello my name is BRittny and i am the daughter of Gregory Bastian. My father Gregory Bastian is infected with this disease and has not yet found any good treatment to help him gain back any strength. If anyone, ANYONE knows of better treatment and medication please email my father @ his email address : gregorybastian@yahoo.com Thank You and God Bless
Will Downing, as a 54 yr old vibrant man, diagnosed 6 yrs ago w/ Polymyositis, there will be good days and bad days but press on Brother and continue to use the incredible gift the Good Lord gave you to encourage us all. Dance to your musis my friend and to the the songs of your heart as you truly are an inspiration to us all. Arise each day with expectations of miracles in your life for they will come. Be still and listen for that small still voice that will guide your steps and comfort your pain with a peace that passes all understanding. Your Friend Rick from Charlotte NC
will stay strong everyday you'll get better,like shon i thought i was the only with polymyositis,keep a positive attitude.luv ya.
There are many of us with this illness. You are fortunate you are healing albeit slowly but healing just the same. i have diagnosed with polymyositis, myositis, and dermatomyositis. I almost gave up trying until I remebered the llord is my doctor. I save my lab reports and utilize water therapy. You know that song healing waters? It works. I'm in a wheelchair and my voice comes and goes. Breathing exercises extend my ability to speak without stop mid way in sentences. God is good and we have to work with him. Keep on keeping on with your gift. One of many Peace ,
Will, I write you from Costa Rica and now you're in my prayers, I am praying The Lord for your health, you have given me a lot of mental health with your tremendous way of singing. I hope that you recover very soon.
Will, my father is 43 and he is also infected with PM. We just had an incident last night where his breathing got really bad, he was with my 13 and 5 year old sisters the 13 year old called the EMT's his heart did stop @ a point and they got it beatting again. The problem is they don't know what caused this episode or his blood pressure being so high. So from a daughter stance on this disease. It is very difficult to watch your family get sick, let alone your father. It makes it even harder when no one really has any answers. I completely understand where your family is right now. More or less your daughter, for us as daughters our dads are unbeatable and unbreakable men. So I can only imagine how she has been taking it, I mean I'm 27. Will, you are in my prayers, and just like my dad who's breathing on his own as of this morning. I believe you'll make it out of this just fine!!! God Bless!
My prayers are with you. Always remember you are not alone. God is on your side this too shall pass the spirit of the Lord be with you. God Bless you get well soon.
Will, "Christmas, love and you" I believe IN THE HEALING POWERof Laugher, of Love of Touch, of Prayer.... and TODAY I AM HOPING YOU WILL JUST relax and FEEL ALL THE Love, Comfort and Strength WITHIN YOU AND AROUND YOU, LET HEALING HAPPEN. Will, I am PRAYING THE LORD WILL RESTORE YOUR HEALTH SOON. "I MISSED YOU AT CHENE PARK THIS SUMMER." PEACE TO YOU NOW WILL, TRUE FAN
Will, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Yours was the first concert I'd ever attended. You touched not only my hand but my heart with your music. Now, I extend my imaginary hand to you as you continue on your journey. I wish you well my friend!!!!