In Memoriam: Charlton Harris, June 24, 1964-Aug. 25, 2023
Remembering our beloved friend and gifted Sarcoidosis News columnist
It is with deep sadness that we inform the Sarcoidosis News community of the passing of our friend and gifted columnist Charlton Harris on Aug. 25, 2023, only a few days before the publication of his final column.
Charlton visiting the BioNews office in November 2019. (Photo by Brad Dell)
Born on June 24, 1964, Charlton grew to become a beloved husband and father. As a video professional from Philadelphia, he spent his career editing and producing multimedia content for various companies. He also worked in management and as a part-time U.S. Department of Homeland Security officer for several years.
In 2004, at the age of 40, Charlton was diagnosed with sarcoidosis. As his disability affected him more later in life, he sought redemption from the pain in March 2019 by beginning his column, “No Tears for Sarcoidosis.” In every installment, he reflected on his journey with hope, humor, and a fierce determination to live each day to the fullest. His favorite thing to write about was his loving family and the kinship he found with other people. He loved gathering loved ones to taste his pit barbecue and home-brews.
Though he faced numerous adversities throughout his life, he had a spirit of gentleness and compassion that defined both his writing and his personality. Even in the midst of overwhelming grief upon losing his son in early 2023, he continued to show love to his co-workers by asking after them and sharing what he was learning in that season.
We will miss him greatly, but we remain thankful for the stories and messages he shared with the sarcoidosis community, and that his voice will continue to speak to future generations.
The following quote from Charlton’s first column exemplifies who he was as a writer and person.
(Courtesy of Charlton Harris)
“Living with sarcoidosis is a challenge, as anyone with the condition will tell you. It robs you of breath, some freedoms, and relaxation. Some people experience more severe issues than I have. However, the one thing sarcoidosis doesn’t — and shouldn’t — rob a person of is self-worth. Every day, I must have the mindset and determination that, ‘I’m going to make this a great day!’ Every day should have a purpose. It’s easier said than done, but it is doable.”
You can read Charlton’s columns here.
Note: Sarcoidosis News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Sarcoidosis News or its parent company, BioNews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to sarcoidosis.
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Comments
wendy a schleyer
This is a big hit we will miss him so much
Nicole Paquette
I just read this news. This is very sad as M. Harris was always an encouraging writer, always trying to see the best in each situation. My sympathies to his family and colleagues at Sarcoidosis News.
Jan
My Condolences to Charlton’s Family. I enjoyed reading his columns. He will be sorely missed. His kind and gentle spirit reflected in his writings; always thinking of others as he continued to fight. Rest in Peace 🙏🏾
Jemma
I'm so deeply sorry to hear of Charlton's passing. I never met him but truly enjoyed reading his insights and positive take on life in this column.
Laura Runge-Gordon
This is surprising and sad news! I guess I always looked forward to his columns as a sign of hope for myself. He really inspired me to try harder, to live my best life within the confines of this really horrible disease. I am so sorry for his family and send my condolences.
Laura
Francis Thompson
I am truly saddened to find out about his passing. His writings made an impact on my life. What I will miss most is the humanity he exuded. He cared for others and did not dwell in his affliction.
To his family and friends, I offer my sincere condolences; however, I believe if he could talk to us, he would insist that we not cry for him; but honor him by keeping his love and spirit in our daily lives going forward.
I regret that we never met. I am a local Philadelphia sarcoidosis warrior. Not a victim, the healthy person I was or someone who shrinks to the challenges that come with this condition. I chose to emulate Charlton's spirit. I believe that Charlton chose to accept the challenges of living with sarcoidosis and dedicate through his example and writings to making a difference in other peoples lives. His writing reflected the spirit of a man who made a commitment to living the best life he could for his family, friends and fellow suffers. I will remember him fondly and honor his undying spirit. Charlton exemplified what it means to be human. I am saddened by my loss, however; I will honor Charlton and hope that I can help keep his light shinning.
Veronica Fravola
I am heartbroken. I never met him in person, but I loved his columns. Charlton had an amazing ability to sum up what it is like to live with sarcoidosis, and his determination to continue to live instead of just existing with it was inspiring and encouraging. My condolences to his family on their second loss in a short period of time.
Darryl
As a sarcoidosis patient about the same age as Charlton, his columns, insights and encouragement meant the world to me. I looked forward to reading and vicariously experiencing his lessons. I don't know how many times he got me started anew as I would tearfully share his columns with my wife. His columns broke the isolation and gave me hope. Thank you, Charlton!
d.a. scott
I looked forward to his columns and learned a lot from them; in fact, I was awaiting his next one. I'm kind of surprised at much his passing hurts me, essentially a stranger. I'll miss him: his spirit, his determination, his clear-eyed conversations with us. My world; the world is less without him and that is not hyperbole. I pray for his family and those who also loved him. Peaceful journey Mr. Harris; you are loved.
Iris Wint
You will be greatly missed!