We are incredibly grateful to our amazing 2026 Sponsors for their generous support of the Chris “CJ” Johnson Foundation’s Keepin’ It Renal Run/Walk.
Read MoreTurning Grief into Action. Advocacy into Hope. Our Mission The Chris “CJ” Johnson Foundation is dedicated to raising awareness, advancing research, and providing compassionate support for individuals and families impacted by renal medullary carcinoma (RMC)—a rare and aggressive kidney cancer primarily affecting individuals with Sickle Cell Trait. 2025 Highlights & Accomplishments Signature Awareness Events Successfully […]
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December of 2022 Edward and I would spend 36 hours in the ER, only to get the devastating news of stage 4 kidney cancer that would later be identified as RMC. This life altering diagnosis brought life to a halt and shifted priorities. In May of 2023, I would start a new chapter in my life.
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Brandon Hunter has traveled across the world serving his country in the U.S. Army, but it was during his time stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso that his life took an unexpected turn.
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The Chris “CJ” Johnson Foundation Board Members welcomes Ronald West to our board. Ron brings decades of leadership, advocacy, and service to the Chris “CJ” Johnson Foundation, fueled by both his professional expertise and his deeply personal journey as a caregiver and father.
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On March 22, 2025, an Unstoppable Force came together from around the world for the 12th Annual Keepin’ It Renal Run/Walk to raise awareness for renal medullary carcinoma (RMC). This powerful gathering provided an opportunity to connect with RMC warriors, honor the families who have lost loved ones, and hear the latest updates from world-renowned physicians, Dr. Nizar Tannir and Dr. Pavlos Msaouel.
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The Chris CJ Johnson Foundation Inc. would like to take a moment to recognize the outstanding work of Dr. Daniel Shapiro, Pavlos Msaouel MD and team. Their dedication and commitment to ongoing research are paving the way toward better treatments for those diagnosed with Renal Medullary Carcinoma (RMC). Because of their tireless efforts, hope continues […]
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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).
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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.
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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.
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