Ritchie Johnson – Force Behind the RMC Movement
- February 02, 2024
Today, we are shining a spotlight on the driving force behind the RMC Movement, Ritchie Johnson. Her unwavering commitment stems from a personal tragedy – the loss of her youngest son, Chris, to renal medullary carcinoma (RMC) at the age of 39. While undergoing treatment, Chris recognized the critical need for awareness and information regarding kidney cancers, particularly RMC, and its association with sickle cell trait (SCT). Sadly, Chris’s health deteriorated before he could advocate for change succumbing to RMC.
In the aftermath of Chris’s passing, Ritchie founded the Chris “CJ” Johnson Foundation in his memory. Ritchie is a tireless advocate, spreading awareness about RMC and its correlation with SCT globally. Known affectionately as “Mama” and “Grandma” to many, Ritchie forges special bonds with patients and their families. Her dedication goes beyond words, as she opens her home to those in need, treating them to meals during their visits to Houston for medical appointments. Patient and their families trust her implicitly, seeking solace through phone calls to discuss treatment plans or simply talk.
Despite the enduring pain of losing a child, Ritchie finds solace in helping others comprehend and cope with the devastating diagnosis of RMC. The foundation under her leadership, not only raises awareness but also allocates funds to propel RMC research forward. It extends educational and support services to families who are traveling this unknown terrain. Progress has been made, evident in three clinical trials on RMC with a fourth in development at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center. However, challenges persist, with access to crucial institutions and physicians hindered by insurance limitations.
The chain preventing access to clinical trials and tailored RMC treatment must be broken. This is a call to action, urging individuals to join the 11th annual “Keepin’ It Renal” run/walk at Sugar Land Memorial Park on March 23, 2024. For those unable to attend in person, we encourage virtual participation from anywhere in the world. Together, let’s make a difference in the fight against RMC and support the crucial mission of the Chris “CJ” Johnson Foundation.