The Chris “CJ” Johnson Foundation mourns the passing of Misty Sheldon on August 10, 2025. Earlier this year, Misty experienced the heartbreaking loss of her beautiful daughter, Elvie, who passed away in January at only 13 years old after bravely battling renal medullary carcinoma (RMC).
Renal Medullary Carcinoma (RMC) is an extremely rare and aggressive form of kidney cancer, most commonly found in young people of African descent who carry the sickle cell trait. It is often diagnosed in late stages due to vague or overlooked symptoms, and treatment options remain limited.
Our President, Ritchie Johnson, had the pleasure of interviewing Anna Victoria Parker (Avie), whom she met during the 12th Annual Keepin’ It Renal Run/Walk. Ritchie was immediately drawn to Avie’s radiant smile and was thrilled to learn about her recent acceptance to Brandeis University, where she will be studying Biochemistry as she prepares for medical school with the goal of becoming an Oncology Pathologist.
March is recognized as Kidney Cancer Awareness Month, with orange as its designated color. However, for those of us in the renal medullary carcinoma (RMC) community, the fight for awareness and education does not stop when the calendar turns. RMC is the most aggressive and fatal of all kidney cancers, disproportionately affecting individuals with the […]
Our “12th Annual Keepin’ It Renal Run/Walk” was a tremendous success, bringing together approximately 500 participants from around the world! We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from our RMC community, whose dedication and commitment continue to make a difference in the fight against renal medullary carcinoma (RMC).
2024 Annual Report We extend our deepest gratitude to the Board of Directors, the RMC community, sponsors, participants, and volunteers. Your unwavering support has made 2024 an extraordinary year. As we celebrate our collective achievements, we are thrilled to share the highlights of this impactful year, showcasing how the RMC Movement continues to grow and […]
When Devon was 18 years old, his life took an unexpected turn that would test his strength and resilience in unimaginable ways. It all began on New Year’s Day of 2022 when he started experiencing severe pain on his right side. At the time, I was in the hospital recovering from back surgery, completely unaware […]
Weblinks: MD Anderson webpage for the trial: https://www.mdanderson.org/patients-family/diagnosis-treatment/clinical-trials/clinical-trials-index/clinical-trials-detail.ID2023-1062.html NIH webpage for the trial: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06444880 NCI webpage for the trial: https://www.cancer.gov/research/participate/clinical-trials-search/v?id=NCI-2024-04755 Description: This new clinical trial is testing a new treatment called ubamatamab for two rare and aggressive cancers: renal medullary carcinoma and epithelioid sarcoma. Both cancers lack a key protein named SMARCB1 and can often produce high […]
Today, as we honor what would have been Chris “CJ” Johnson’s 52nd Heavenly birthday, we reflect on the extraordinary legacy he left behind. Chris’ vision and compassion continue to inspire us through the work of the Chris “CJ” Johnson Foundation, an organization dedicated to advocating for change and providing hope to countless families affected by […]
Let’s Unite As An Unstoppable Force for RMC Awareness! WHEN: Saturday, March 15, 2025, 8:30 am – 10:30 am WHERE: Brookside Park – Fannie-Morrison Picnic Area 360 North Arroyo Blvd (Next to Kid Space Museum) Pasadena, CA 91103 **Free Parking Available ENTRY FEE: $30/person (Includes T-Shirt) Additional Fee $5.00/shirt (If you want your shirt […]