Paul Karason
American man with blue skin (1950–2013)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Paul Halldor Karason[2] (November 14, 1950 – September 23, 2013) was an American man from Bellingham, Washington, whose skin was a purple-blue color.[3]
Paul Karason | |
|---|---|
Karason on The Oprah Winfrey Show in 2008 | |
| Born | November 14, 1950 |
| Died | September 23, 2013 (aged 62) Washington, U.S. |
| Known for | His blue skin resulting from argyria |
Karason had light skin and freckles until the early 1990s. His skin turned blue after he began taking a homemade colloidal silver treatment and rubbing a silver preparation on his skin in an attempt to treat problems with his sinuses, dermatitis, acid reflux, and other issues. This caused him to develop argyria.[4] In 2008, Karason first gained prominence after appearing on Today.[5] He claimed it cured his acid reflux and arthritis, but acknowledged it was also the cause of his argyria.[6]
Karason moved from Oregon to the California Central Valley community Madera in the summer of 2007 seeking greater community acceptance. He described himself as somewhat of a recluse.[7] By 2012, Karason lost his home while experiencing a heart condition and prostate cancer. He later moved to a homeless shelter in Bellingham, Washington.[8]
In 2013, Karason died after a heart attack led to pneumonia and a severe stroke.[9] He was a heavy smoker and underwent a triple bypass surgery in 2008. He was estranged from his wife at the time of his death.[10][11] Karason continued to use colloidal silver until his death.[12]
See also
- Stan Jones, Libertarian politician known for his similarly artificially induced argyria
- Blue Fugates, a family from Kentucky with blue skin caused by a genetic mutation