Personal Life
Wilson’s struggle with alcohol and drug addiction consumed him in the late 1980s and mid-1990s after the breakup of the GAP Band. In 1994 he decided to enter rehabilitation and turn his life around seeking to live a clean and sober life which in turn would give him a new perspective on life. In rehab he met social worker Mahin. They married in 1995. As of 2011 Wilson has had 17 years of sobriety. His music continues to resonate with generations of musicians and rappers, many of whom clamor to recreate his soaring vocals, collaborate with him, or just achieve the level of artistic quality that he has maintained. He is recognized as a true ‘living legend’ and his chart-topping solo career has now surpassed the success that he earned with the GAP Band.
Wilson was diagnosed with prostate cancer in September 2008. Fortunately, the cancer was detected early, so he was able to begin treatment immediately. In typical Wilson fashion, he and his wife, Mahin, took this challenge head on and because he received an early diagnosis and was treated properly, he is now cancer free. However, he chose not to keep his diagnosis private. According to Wilson, "I've always been performing but now its time for me to start informing."
Beyond music, Wilson remains committed to promoting awareness and testing for prostate cancer. As a survivor of a disease that afflicts one in six American men—and one in four African American men—Wilson teamed with the Prostate Cancer Foundation in 2008 . “When I learned that the PCF had helped to build a global research enterprise of nearly $10 billion and funded more than 1500 programs at nearly 200 research centers in 12 countries, I knew I wanted to support their efforts,” stated Wilson.
Today he continues to speak at events around the country, educating and encouraging men to get screened for the disease. He also supports the PCF through the sale of his signature fedora hats at his concerts and on his website at www.unclecharliewilson.com/shop.
With music and his work to combat prostate cancer, Wilson has been able to sustain the passion and drive that have been hallmarks of his legendary career. “I’m still living this dream,” Wilson says. “I’m still going to the stage and I’m still having fun. I’m not there just to pick up the check. It’s about the passion and the respect that I have for the game. It keeps me going.”
Read more about this topic: Charlie Wilson (singer)
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