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 […]
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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 […]
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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 […]
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It is with a heavy heart that I share the passing of another RMC warrior, Julia, who was 46 years old and leaves behind three young children, including her nephew, whom she was raising.
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For those of you who do not know me, my name is Gabrielle Hayward-Johnson, and Chris Johnson was my father. My dad passed away from RMC in September 2012, just three weeks after my 6th birthday.
My grandmother, Ritchie, asked me to share with you about the impact my dad’s death has had on me – specifically, my personal journey of grief. I also want to share with you some lessons I’ve learned that may help others cope through their own grief.
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Shanice Johnson is a passionate public health and health education advocate and a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES). She received her undergraduate degree from LaSalle University in Philadelphia and a Masters in Public Health from the University of New England in 2019. Shanice has developed and implemented a variety of health education programs and fostered community partnerships with organizations and stakeholders to improve health outcomes and equity in New Jersey and California.
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Sickle cell trait (SCT) represents a significant public health concern, particularly among populations with a higher prevalence of this genetic condition. SCT is inherited when a person carries one abnormal hemoglobin gene and one normal gene, typically without exhibiting symptoms of sickle cell disease (SCD).
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Our 11th Annual Keepin’ It Renal Global Run/Walk proved to be a resounding success.
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We are deeply honored and grateful to extend our sincerest appreciation to all the sponsors who generously contributed to the success of the 11th Annual Keepin’ It Renal Run/Walk, held in several locations around the world during the month of March 2024. Your support has not only made our events possible, but has also pushed […]
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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.
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