The Chris “CJ” Johnson Foundation, was officially incorporated in November 2012, established by Ritchie Johnson in loving memory of her son, Chris Johnson, who passed away that same year. In April 2013, the foundation, headquartered in Sugar Land, Texas, achieved 501(c)(3) non-profit status. Our primary focus is on individuals with sickle hemoglobinopathies such as sickle cell trait (SCT), who may face the risk for renal medullary carcinoma (RMC), a rare and aggressive form of kidney cancer. Through various programs, we aim to educate, raise awareness, and advocate for greater understanding, ultimately working towards a cure for RMC. Additionally, the foundation contributes annually to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, supporting the advancement of RMC research.

Our mission is to form a global community dedicated to increasing awareness and addressing health disparities for RMC patients through advocacy, education and research. We envision a future where all RMC patients have access to leading institutions conducting cutting-edge research.

Our vision is to eliminate health disparities and discover a cure for renal medullary carcinoma (RMC).

WHAT IS OUR NEXT STEP?

We are championing for CHANGE!

It is imperative to raise awareness in communities with a high prevalence of sickle cell trait and other sickle blood disorders. By working collaboratively with other community based organizations and garnering support from our sate and Congress, we can and should tackle health disparities, ensuring that RMC patients have access to cutting-edge research institutions regardless of their insurance coverage. As aptly articulated by Dr. Nizar Tannir, “This under-appreciation of the true prevalence of RMC is an example of healthcare disparity. This is why we need to double our efforts to assist the RMC Community.”

We must drive initiatives to eradicate health disparities and improve cancer prevention, detection, and treatment programs. The lives of RMC patients matter, and they deserved to receive quality care.

Together, we will emerge stronger, fostering renewed hope for a better future.