Game 4 P.E.A.C.E alumnus Doug Payne born in Harlem, New York is a devoted advocate for peace and community well-being and a key member of the organizing committee for the “Wake Up, Rise Up LIVE 4 Peace” event. This global virtual music concert, held annually on September 21st to coincide with the United Nations’ International Day of Peace, unites entertainers worldwide to protest violence and promote peace. Doug’s role involves coordinating Stop the Violence speeches from professionals across various fields, connecting local charities with audiences, and curating performances from artists globally. The event runs continuously for 24 hours or more, showcasing Doug’s dedication to creating a platform that inspires and mobilizes individuals towards a more peaceful world.

Doug Payne’s journey in music began early, attending the prestigious Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in Manhattan and Howard University. A talented singer and guitarist, Doug was a member of the Sister Sledge touring band and, in 1982, his band Doug Payne & Polygon released the single “Holiday,” which gained significant airplay on funk and R&B radio stations.

At 63, Doug was immersed in writing and recording music across various genres, from pop to R&B to funk. His career included producing songs, performing for local television, and spending 25 years as an instrumental music teacher. However, in September 2018, Doug’s life took an unexpected turn when he discovered a lump on his back. Initially dismissing it, he eventually sought medical advice, leading to a diagnosis of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, a rare type of sarcoma.

Doug underwent three surgeries and subsequent radiation therapy under the care of Dr. Jeffrey M. Farma and Dr. Sameer A. Patel at Fox Chase Cancer Center. Despite the challenges, Doug’s positive outlook and the support of his wife, who has a background in medical transcription, helped him navigate this difficult period.

Throughout his treatment, Doug remained connected to his passion for music. He returned to substitute teaching and received 30 radiation treatments from January through March 2019. The staff at Fox Chase played his song “Holiday” during one of his treatments, bringing joy and laughter to the sessions.

Five years post-diagnosis, Doug feels great and has returned to his musical pursuits, recording, producing, and performing once again. His contributions to promoting peace through music were recognized with the Martin Luther King Jr. Honoring The Dream Award for his Phase 5 Records music video, “Our Lives Matter (Wake Up Rise Up).”

Doug’s experience at Fox Chase left a profound impact, and he remains grateful for the toprofessionalism and friendliness of the staff. He continues to advocate for early medical intervention and is a living testament to the life-saving care provided at Fox Chase.

Doug Payne exemplifies resilience and dedication, using his experiences and talents to inspire peace and community through music. His journey underscores the importance of timely medical attention and the transformative power of music and community support.