Advocating for Prostate Cancer Awareness Through Jazz

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Jazz For Prostate Cancer Awareness®

Jazz for Prostate Cancer Awareness® was created to remember legendary NYC jazz trombonist James “Jimmy” Stowe, who at age 61 succumbed to prostate cancer after a five-year battle. He insisted that his brothers, Ralph, Phillip, and Wendell, be tested for the disease during his treatment. Eventually, all were diagnosed and underwent successful prostatectomies due to their early screenings.

Encouraged by his urologist, Dr. Isaac Kim Ph.D., MA, MBA, Ralph became an advocate for the education and early detection of this men’s health epidemic. Ultimately, it was the high regard for his brother James within the jazz community that musicians offered their musical talents, which compelled Ralph to launch the Jazz for Prostate Cancer Awareness® charity in his brother’s honor.

Jazz For Prostate Cancer Awareness® – Mission

The mission of Jazz4PCA is to advocate for men’s wellness by supplying accurate information about prostate cancer, providing access to free or low-cost screenings while increasing exposure to live jazz music.

The organization has been recognized by:

  • NJ State Governor’s Volunteer Award – Founders/Innovator & Healthcare Service Categories
  • The Russ Berrie Making a Difference Award – Wall of Honor
  • NJBiz – Healthcare Heroes, Education Hero Category
  • The Rutgers Cancer Health Equity Center of Excellence – Community Education Champion
  • The NY Yankees – Men’s Health Awareness Weekend
  • The NJ Devils – Black History Month Celebration & Performance

Jazz4PCA® is staffed 100% with volunteers. There is no salary or payment made directly/indirectly to its President, advisory board or volunteers. It is a recognized tax exempt organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

RWJ TV Commercial featuring Ralph Stowe

Jazz4PCA Partners

For any talented jazz ensemble, the harmony of their collective melodies produces a more dynamic and impactful sound than one instrument simply playing alone. In keeping with that theme, Jazz4PCA © collaborates with musicians, restauranteurs, club owners, and major corporations to deliver a more harmonious impact on the communities we serve. These outstanding individuals and organizations have committed to further the vital mission of Jazz4PCA. Utilizing live jazz performances as a draw, these partners create a comfortable environment to enjoy great music and great food for a great cause.

MORE ON OUR PARTNERS

Ralph Stowe’s Star Ledger Opinion, “Prostate Cancer Unawareness Kills”

Ralph Stowe, second from left, flanked by brothers Wendell, left, the late James (Jimmy), third from left, and Phillip were all diagnosed with prostate cancer. Following James’ passing in 2009, Ralph has been spreading prostate cancer awareness through jazz.

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Ralph Stowe, second from left, flanked by brothers Wendell, left, the late James (Jimmy), third from left, and Philip were all diagnosed with prostate cancer. Following James' death in 2009, Ralph has been spreading prostate cancer awareness through jazz.

Some Good Words

As an oncologist, I am so thankful for Ralph and the team at Jazz4PCA and all the incredible work they have done in raising awareness in the community.


— Dr. Isaac Kim PhD

Meeting Ralph Stowe, and hearing his story gave me a new found strength during a time of fear and weakness in my body and spirit. His work and mission through Jazz4PCA helped me face the alarming diagnosis of prostate cancer.


— Bishop Alfred Johnson
Research Professor and Director, Center for the Study and Practice of Urban Religion

Happy 10th Anniversary! I know that PCA makes a difference and honors Jimmy Stowe. Blessings.


— Valerie Preston

Jazz For Prostate Cancer Awareness® Events

Every year Jazz4PCA hosts a series of events. Take a look at our upcoming events!

Events