Sunday, December 31, 2006

As New Year's Eve is upon us, I supposed it would be best to say that this year has certainly been full of surprises. While on the health front it has been a messed up year, I am very lucky to have such a successful business and such a great family life and friendships. I will have to say that 2006 has been a success overall.

I know that life gives you things sometimes that people think they can not handle, but I am her to tell you that anyone can handle it. I want my daughter to know that her daddy always handled things with a great attitude, whether I am here to tell her or not.

I hope that everyone has a great 2007. The Johnson's hope that 2007 brings joy and happiness to you and to yours....

Thursday, December 28, 2006

Latest donations for Addi's Cure:

Clay Eschrich
Michael Brenny
Dave Jacobs
Bill and Jo Cain


We are at $75,000.04! We made it and I am so excited. I will be going to Duke on Jan 3, 2007 to present them the check....

Wednesday, December 27, 2006



Addi got a Trampoline from Santa!

Also a birthday shout out to Curtis...Happy Birthday!

Tuesday, December 26, 2006

Today I was sick with a head cold so I had to miss Christmas with my dad in Hendersonville. Christi and Addi went so we were represented, but I was pretty sad since I do not get to see my dad a lot. Christi and Addi said it was a lot of fun. I will get up there soon.

Latest donors to Addi's Cure:

Lindsey Tidrick
Walker and Candace Ham (2)
Rosalyn Proctor

When I go back to Duke on Jan 3, I will present them with a check for Addi's Cure own source code. What this means is that we will know exactly what the money is going for, and I can report back to you what your dollars are doing.

I hope everyone had a happy holiday and spent a lot of time with friends and family.

Monday, December 25, 2006

Today was a great day. I got to spend Christmas with Addi and Christi. We woke up and let Addi play with her present, then we went to church. When we came back, Christi fixed turkey, stuffing, corn on the cob, green beans, and pumpkin pie. Jo and Bill came over with Tracia and Aunt Bobbie. We all are and had a great time.

Last night, we spent time at Moms and Bill's house. We always do Christmas eve there, at least when I was growing up. Since Christi and I got married, we did Christmas sometimes in Kansas. When Addi was born, we decided that it was important for Addi to wake up at her house for Christmas. That is why we went to Kansas earlier.

Caroline and Mike moved into their new house. It is really nice and they did a great job in picking out stuff.

Tomorrow we are going to go to my dad's for a little while to see Papa and Dad. Then we will head to Lee Bradly's.

I wanted to say a big thank you to the Wiese family for their donation to Addi's Cure. Kristen, their daughter, was an intern for FIG a couple of summers ago. We got to be really good friends, and she comes over when she is in town to say hey, and also does some things for us like watch the dogs, etc. They have an unbelievable family and were very nice in their donation. David Bidwell donated this week as well. He also sent me an article that was really interesting. Bill and Jo also are donating this week. They wanted to see where we were for the year before they donated. I am certain that we will be over $75,000 in 2006! UNBELIEVABLE.

Letters will go out to all that gave in 2006 this week. This will be your receipt for the donation as far as the IRS is concerned. I am so thankful to everyone, and I am hoping people will see the value in making this an annual donation....

On June 1st, 2006, a doctor told me I might not be here for this Christmas. I am here, and feeling great. This is due to God, your prayers and positive thinking, my wife making sure I eat right, and Duke Medical. I want to thank everyone for that. My goal is 5 years, and I am going to make that goal as well....

Friday, December 22, 2006



This is Addision and her two cousins. Addison is 14 months, Wyatt is 13 months and Ryan is almost 11 months. Trouble with a Capital "T"



Latest donations to Addi's Cure:

Alecia Barnette
Jim Cooper
Kathy Miller


New total: $65,656,56

Thursday, December 21, 2006

Latest additions to Addi's Cure:

Cindy Harvey
Michael Dolce
Jon Davis
Jamie Prillaman
Heather & Jeremy Koster
Peggy & David Yountz
4 Our Fans, Inc (Livis)
Renee Purdy
Keith Russell
Terry Morgan (2nd donation)

$65281.56, close to the goal of $70,000

Christi, Addi, and I just got back from Kansas and visiting Christi's parent and family. We had a great time, although Addi was sick some of the time. I hope everyone has a great Christmas..... God Bless....

Thursday, December 14, 2006

Here are the latest donations for Addi's Cure. Thank you.

Larry and Tammy Pike
Made In Russia (Dennis Easter)
Jerry and Jackie Shoaf
Trey McIntyre
Brian Williams
J.S. Wallin (Wally)
David Williams
Jon and Donnelle Graham
Myles Standish
Angie Roark
Kelley Greene
George Dixon
Catherine Prosser
Bethaney Weber
Jason Tillery
Mark Wiles
Judy Munson
Karen McFarland
Robert Kanoy
Ricky Harrell
Matthew McBee
Donna Weaver
Kemal Atkins
James Sutton
Nataliya Evert
John Causey
Beth Worsley
Scarlett Liles
David English
Susan McCracken

New total: $63,926.56 I am hoping to get to $70,000.00 by the end of the year. This is unbelieveable.... Please go to addiscure.org to see a new picture that is WAY better.

Thanks!

Wednesday, December 13, 2006

I made it back from Florida and flew right into Raleigh, thanks Brian for letting me stay at your house and for picking me up from the airport.

I had a great time in Orlando. Eric Thomes, Steve Kerns, Dennis Brown, and Tim Otto came down to play a little golf. We stay at Reunion in Orlando, and it was really nice. We play 3 courses in two days. Eric Thomes cheated and was the overall winner. (Handicap questionable...) Steve Kerns was the big $$ winner, but had to suffer through playing with us hacks. (He is a 5 handicap, legit I will say) Dennis talked a lot and we realized he needs glasses on when a putt should be good. Tim and I battled it out on side bets and at Boo-Ray, a card game. We went to Shula's for dinner, and all in all, had a blast. We decided we need to do this as an annual deal. Maybe we can make it a big deal for any golfers out there....

Christi drove up and picked me up for the doctor's visit. I was a little worried about this one because I had been coughing some and when I laid down it feels like liquid is moving around in my chest. We got the scans done and had some lunch. Then we met with Dr. Crawford, he might think I am crazy by now and need another head scan. Dr. Crawford found out what the problem was. The scan of the right lung came back the same as previously, still cancer there but no growth. The left side was a little harder to tell. I have a partially collapsed lung which made it difficult to tell if there was any change or growth. This is good and bad. Good in the fact that it is unlikely with my type of cancer to have growth on one side and not the other, which means since there wasn't growth on the right side then hopefully there isn't growth on the left. There is no guarantees, but looks like the Tarceva might be working. The bad news is I have a partially collapsed lung. They are unsure what might have caused this, but since it wasn't due to any surgery they will take the wait and see method and let my body heal itself. There are numerous reasons why this can happen, coughing, sneezing, (Christi thinks hunting and having the gun hit my left side, therefore no hunting in Kansas) If I wasn't in such fabulous, haha, shape I might have had to stay the night and have them take the air out, but since I played 36 holes on Monday and another 18 holes Tuesday, along with hiking a mile with Dennis, he thinks I might be able to handle it. I am just going to rest over the holidays, let me family and friends take care of me and when I go back in 3 weeks they will do more scans and hopefully things have healed themselves. I also have a mild viral infection that I am taking antibiotics for that could have caused me to cough and tear a hole in my lung. The collapsed lung explains the sensations I have been feeling in my chest. I have been so worried that it might have been the cancer, I didn't want to worry everyone. I have never been so happy to have a collapsed lung!
Thank you everyone for the well wishes and prayers, looks like they worked again.

I also received a big surprise from Brian when I was at his house. He works for the UNC university system. He does the secret santa stuff for their office, and this year he was very surprised at the results. The people there, everyone, gave to Addi's Cure for their present. Brian was overwhelmed and I think he might have cried! Just kidding, Brian never cries...) I think this was an unbelievable gesture. I will have everyone listed tomorrow so please check back. They raised $945.00.

I will tell you, I am pumped. If I can be this happy with a partially collapsed lung and cancer, then you should be happy too. We all have battles, we just need to win the war so to speak. I am very thankful to be spending this time with my family.

Thanks!

Sunday, December 10, 2006


Hey Everyone it is me Christi...Addi and I are hanging out at home together for the next couple of days. Bo is golfing and working with some friends and we are missing him already. We had an interesting week last week. Addi and I thought it would be fun to get this really great stomach bug that knocks you out for a couple days. At one point her and I were sharing the same bucket to be sick in. Bo had to go out of town so Grams and Aunt Tracia came to help with Addi, only to get it themselves. We are all about sharing in the Johnson house. Needless to say, I think everyone is better. Addi is scared of throwing up every time she burps, but we can manage that.
I wanted to ask everyone out there that is speaking with the "Big Man", as Bo would say, to maybe mention Bo's name to him. We have scans on Wednesday and these are pretty vital in figuring out how and if the Tarceva is working. Bo has been off chemo long enough to figure this out. Bo's is still feeling good, a little head cold, we think, but all in all good. (I am sure he wishes his golf game was better, but that is just him) So if anyone is still reading this, Wednesday is a big day for us and any extra prayers would be greatly appreciated.
Love you all and have a Great Holiday Season
Christi and Addi
PS That is a picture pre-sickness

Friday, December 08, 2006

This week flew by!

Here are the latest donors to Addi's Cure:

Reliance Standard
Amerus Annuity Group
Linda Hoitt

I want everyone to know that we have raised $36,801.56. This is awesome so on December 31st, I will be matching it at the $25,000 level..

I am so thankful to all of my friends and the companies. I honestly can not believe the outpour from you guys. Over $61,000 is tremendous....

Thursday, December 07, 2006

Hello to all!

I hope everyone's holiday season is going as well as mine. It has been a lot of fun watching Addi and seeing her get excited about something, she just isn't quite sure what...

*** Important Announcement - addiscure.org is up for you to view! Please visit the fundraising part and submit a recipe. Send all of your friends there as well.

I am back from Iowa where I had a meeting (Equitrust) and did some hunting. My group got 24 birds, but notice I said my group. Good thing Addi and Christi are not waiting at home for me to bring the food! I would have a VERY skinny baby.

It was nice to see everyone at Equitrust. It was a little hard when they talked about a former employee that just died of lung cancer. She was a really great person, and she had even been to our office. It really hit their office hard and I am sure everyone will miss her.

Here are the latest donors to Addi's Cure:

Equitrust (FBL)
Jennifer Semon
David Whitehead - personal
David Whitehead - on a bet he won from me on the Panthers/Eagles (Thanks Dave)
Sharon Havener (with match form from LFG)
Tony Brown (with match form from LFG)
Jay Robinson

I was really pumped with all of the excitement with Addi's Cure.

Friday, December 01, 2006


Addi's gone Country!

Tuesday, November 28, 2006

Latest donor to Addi's Cure:

Americo - Michael Merrimon and Gary Muller

Michael Merrimon deserves a special thanks because of his involvement with cancer. He had a family member diagnosed with cancer, and he really knows his stuff. He also has a business that discovers drugs for cancer. He is really doing a lot for cancer, so for him to donate to Addi's Cure is special.



Today I went to the dentist, not to bad. Work was great, and we are at 60 plus now for employees. I think we are going to end this year up 32.6 percent. We are very lucky at FIG.

Christi and Addi are doing well also. Addi is so funny. I will get Christi to put up some new photos soon. Have a great night.

Monday, November 27, 2006

Here is the latest donors to Addi's Cure:

Insurmark
Carolyn Zajac Luby
Lori Bochner
Jenn Thomas
Darryl Chouinard

We are now at $20,810.

I do have some sad news. Mike Dixon, one of my friends who has lung cancer, died on Saturday. Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. He was a good man who like me, did not deserve to have this disease. Addi's Cure will be making sure that we try not to let these deaths happen.



Hello Everyone, it is me Christi again...
I just wanted to say hello and tell everyone thank you for thinking about my family over the holidays, we had a great one! I ate way to much! Kansas was good, I didn't get to see as many friends as I would have liked to, but maybe over Christmas we can get together, everyone back there is having babies, so that is crazy. As for a Dad things are looking up. He met when an oncologist when I was back there and they found out that the cancer has spread to his lining, but they don't believe any futher than that. The lymph node test came back negative, so we all hope and pray the surgery got it all. 14 spots around the cancer tissue site came back negative as well. He is on the mend, but he is trying to do to much. So for all you Kansans if you see Larry Morgan out on a job site, send him back to his truck! Just for another couple of weeks, sorry Pa.
As for Bo, I love him, but he sure does get himself into some messes. He obviously put a facemask on that had poison oak on it. His rash is pretty much from the neck up...he is feeling better, but if you are allergic to poison oak, lucky me I am not, stay away from him. We will get him better by Christmas, I hope! It not I will take Christmas anyway, anyday with him.

Thanks too all and see you soon
Christi

Also a big Happy Birthday to our Princess Peyton, she is 3 Today!

PS - I attached a family photo of Addi's first Carolina game, don't worry, I will get to KU next! Way to knock off Florida, I have never been so proud.

Sunday, November 26, 2006

Quick one tonight. We had a blast on thanksgiving. Went hunting and got poison oak.... Maybe will type better tomorrow!

Tuesday, November 21, 2006


Christi and Addi came back tonight from Kansas. I was really happy to see them both. It seems that Addi has grown some, and she was happy to see her daddy.

Last night I did a presentation for Merritt's (my cousin) business class at Western Carolina University. It went very well. I was very surprised after the presentation when she presented me with $800.00 she raised for Addi's Cure. I only report them number because it is UNBELIEVABLE! College students gave out of the goodness of their hearts. Poor college students that are waiting tables, etc. It really was special to me. I have them listed below with all of the other donors. I really appreciate all of the donations, but I remember what it was like in college, and it just was special.

I went to Duke today for a check up. No scans, next time. I did talk to Susan, Tracy, and Dr. Crawford about Addi's Cure and what we should do with the money. There is some interesting research going on at Duke, and we have several options. Duke even talked about being able to give progress reports for the website, which should be up soon.

Here is the latest donors to Addi's Cure:

Jonathan Rice
Don and Heather Carlson
Candi Thomas
Lauren Story
Jami Bracey
Kappa Sigma at WCU
Ashley Thompson
Delta Chi Fraternity at WCU
Sigma Alpha Epsilon at WCU
Alpha Xi Delta at WCU

Thanks everyone, that brings us to: $18,636.00

GREAT JOB!

Friday, November 17, 2006

It has been a little lonely without Christi and Addi around while they are in Kansas. I have been working a lot, and playing with the dogs. We really had a good week at FIG, and met with a lot of really good people. I really like doing business with quality people. This weekend I am going to play a little golf, and of course watch the MI vs OSU game. I think I am going for MI for Dennis Brown.

I am also going to spend some time with my god daughters this weekend. They are really cute little girls, and Peyton and Patterson are their names. I can only suspect that they will be getting in trouble with Addi later in life, although I am not sure which will be leading.... (I think it will be Peyton in the lead, Addi pushing her as well, and Patterson following because she is so laid back...)

Hope everyone has a good weeekend, leave me some comments!

Thursday, November 16, 2006

Wanted to let evertyone know that things are going well. Christi and Addi went out to visit her father in Kansas, so it is just me and the dogs at the house. Christi's dad is really doing well after surgery, and they have not found any more cancerous cells in him. GREAT NEWS.

Going to play a lot of golf this weekend and rest. I have a busy week next week and of course it is Thanksgiving. I am thankful for a lot of things.

I would like to ask everyone to pray for the family of a special friend of mine. She found out she had lung cancer 5 days ago and died this morning. I knew her through work, and she was a lovely lady. It has been a big shock to her family I am sure, so please pray that they deal with this tragic time the best way they can.

Here are some people that have given to Addi's Cure in the last little bit:

Anna Wiseman
Valerie Sancibrian
Carolyn P. Weaver

We appreciate every dime. I have been in talks with Dule and they are very excited about what we are doing. Have a great weekend.

Monday, November 13, 2006

Christi, Addi, and I are back from Hawaii and everything went well. We went over on a business trip with a company called Americo. They were great hosts and then we extended a little bit just to get some family time in. Kristen W. came with us as the "babysitter" and she did a great job with Addi when we had functions. I played golf twice, and played with Addi by the pool. She had a blast. Christi had fun as well, and it was nice for her to have someone there to help her with Addi when I was gone to a meeting, or golf.

While i was there, the majority shareholder of the firm told a story that i thought was inspiring. He talked about his dad being told he had two years to live in 1983 because of cancer. That is why he can in and took over the company. He was very happy to tell us that his dad was celebrating his 80th birthday while we were on the trip. I went up to him at one of the dinners to tell him I appreciated his comments. He was very knowledgeable on cancer and even has a cancer drug discovery business. He is a very nice man. Christi and I sat at his table for the last evening and met his wife Ellen as well. Good people.


We are almost done with the website for Addi's Cure. Here are the latest donations:

Kay Falandys
Rob Tekolste
Mary Garrison
Marylyn Katzer
Angie Cretors
Rachel Mestad
Esfandyar Dinshaw
Larry Gregory
Shelly Melcher of Asset Protection


We are well on our way to our goal of $50,000 by the end of the year. Please ask friends, etc. to donate so we can make it. I am excited and Addi's Cure will be a huge success for years to come.

On a health note on me = everything is still going well. I feel great. One of the reasons I do not update the blog as much now is because i am out living! You never know when the end will come, any of us. Let's take advantage now!

Thursday, November 02, 2006

FIG, my company, had a guest in today. Mark Zesbaugh, CEO of Allianz Life, came in to address everyone at FIG. It was a real treat. Eric Thomes and Clay came in with him. Eric made an announcement about how Allianz and a lot of their employees personally were going to help sponsor Addi's Cure. (It made my Mom cry!)

It was a very nice gesture. I have truly felt blessed that so many people are willing to help this endeavor out. All of the companies I work with have tried to do something for Addi's Cure, at least from personal support. Unbelievable!

As of today, Addi's Cure is at $16,140 just off the blog and people spreading the word. We need to get to at least $25,000 by December so I can match it. I am so pumped about this. Here is a list of people that have donated today:

Tom May
Allianz Life of NA
Todd Carlson
Ruth Fay
Pam Smith
Cathy Larson
Denise Venus
Mary K. Meyer
Nancy Golling
Lois Jeronimus
Scott and Jacqueline Fryklund
Daniel Halek
Lynette Mastous
Eric Thomes
Mark Zesbaugh
Heidi Wachholz
Ann Crawford
Chris Geist
Ron Barret
Brenda Schmitz
Kyle Casey
Dan Rourke
Don Urban
Dave Sipprell
John Amann
Dee Trowbridge
Brian Gengler
Kerry Kassulker
Brian Peterson
Matt Jarvi
Dave Vornwald
Curtis Kushinski
Samantha Schleder
Troy Cordell
Matt Perry


I will be in Hawaii with Christi and Addi next week so I might have limited access to the blog. Please know that I am so thankful for all of my friends and extended family. You are all making a difference in my experience with Cancer in a very positive way!

Wednesday, November 01, 2006

Hey Everyone it is me Christi...I have good news. My father made it through surgery and things are looking up. Without the results back from the lymph nodes, his doctors are cautiously optimistic that the tumor was contained and they were able to remove it all. It was a rather large tumor, but it wasn't fully attached to the walls of the colon which is very good news. His surrounding organs looked clean showing no signs that it might have spread. We hopefully caught it in time. Now that you know more about my Dad than you wanted to, my entire family wants to thank you for your support and prayers. I especially do, a lot of people asked me what they can do to help, I have one thing to ask: Just know that life is a precious gift, kiss and hug your children, tell your parents you love them everytime you talk to them, call that friend you have been meaning to call, embrace the holidays and spoil everyone rotten and make sure your husband or wife knows that they are the most important person in the world. Let's end 2006 with a bang and make 2007 the best year ever!

Thank you again and let's keep praying for good results for everyone with cancer, for me, both my men.

Tuesday, October 31, 2006

Addi's Cure update:

Without doing anything but chat on this blog, you have raised $8,190 for this cause. It has been awesome. I have sent out some emails to various companies, so I am expecting them to step up. Doing a charity is harder than I thought, but I am having fun doing it. Many of you have given great ideas for fundraising, and super recipes for our cookbook. Thank you! I am excited and looking forward to Addi's Cure on a website soon. Here are the latest people that have given to the cause:

Brent and Megan Henning
Papa (Bo's Grandpa)
Dad (Bo's Dad)
Bruce and Janet Mullan (Bo's sister Caroline in-laws)
Producer's Web (this is an awesome company that FIG does business with. This was unsolicited which makes it even better!)

I did go to Duke yesterday and did all new scans. Everything came back stable, which is awesome. I think everything I am doing is helping.

Tonight Addi went trick or treating and had a blast. She is doing really well. Christi and I are very proud of her....

Sunday, October 29, 2006

Addi, Christi, and I went to the mall today to mess around. It was a lot of fun. There is a store called Express, and it plays "techno" music. Addi stopped in the doorway as we were walking by and started dancing. It was a lot of fun seeing her. She has a big personality, that is for sure.

We did get some potentially bad news this week. Christi's dad found out he has colon cancer. While this is a blow, we are really positive that things will work out. We believe that the surgery he will have on Wednesday of this week will take care of it. Please make sure you pray hard for him, the family needs it. I think he has a good chance to have surgery and a full recovery!

I also ask you to pray for Christi. Today is our anniversary of when we first met 5 years ago at the now famous interview. Ask her about it sometime.... She does not deserve to have to male influences in her life having these problems. This has certainly stressed her out, but she has been a saint. Please say a little prayer for her as well.

Friday, October 27, 2006

Hello out there!

I am back from LA and I did see a doctor there. He is from China originally, and was very nice. I am drinking a tea made from herbs that he gave me. It is awful and stinks. Here is his info:

ABOUT DR. CHANG SHAN XIN
Chang S. Xin (a famous cancer specialist in China), L.Ac., CA. L. Herbs, U.S.A. O.M.D., M.D. (China)
Professor Chief Doctor and Senior Researcher of T.C.M., Laureate of Famous Doctor by China Government
General Herbs, Acupuncture, Cupping, Herbal Vapourtherapy. Specializing in Pains, Cancers, Non-Operative Treatments for Gangrene, Paralysis & Some Hard Treatment Diseases


He gave me a powder and a big bag of herbs. He is also shipping stuff back to me. We will see.

Addi's Cure Update

I have gotten several donations from people and I wanted to make sure I listed everyone:

Ron Bradley
Doug Ray
Boo Budddy
Robin Moorman
Matt Pardine
Brendon Allen
Jeaene Taylor

If I have not listed you and you have given, please let me know. I am trying hard to make sure I list everyone!

Wednesday, October 25, 2006

Quick update:

I am in LA right now and I am going to see a doc that Christi wants me to see. This guy is pretty famous in China. Terry Morgan sent us over his stuff and bam, here I am. I was on PHX on business and decided to take a day trip up to LA to see this guy. I will let you know how it goes.

Addi's Cure - Thanks Jeanne T. for the donation, very sweet. We have opened the account now so all of you should be seeing a letter from us soon showing your donation....

See you soon!

Monday, October 23, 2006


Some people have asked to see Addi's busted up nose...She did this the day before her birthday, this is on her birthday.

Saturday, October 21, 2006

Hello from Cornelius....

I am on my way to Arizona tomorrow so I wanted to update everyone on what has been going on. Basically boring, except FIG has had the best two months we have ever had in history. Matt Hand and I played golf on Friday afternoon, then hung out with Christi and Addi today. We took Addi to the Renaissance festival and she was not having it....

I will be in AZ until Tuesday late, but I am playing golf twice so that is good.

I have gotten a lot of emails about Addi's Cure, and I appreciate it. I think we are going to do a fundraiser that is simple first, that being a cookbook. That being said, I would like everyone to send recipes to me. They need to be full deals with everything you need. I also want your name to put by it. It needs to be lunches, dinners, and desserts. Please send any you have to bojohnson2@hotmail.com and please ask your friends to help. We will try to do it for the holidays. I will let you know more details soon....

Curtis and Erin Morgan gave to Addi's Cure this weekend. We are over $6,000 so far.

Thursday, October 19, 2006

This has been a very good week, we have a softball game so we are racing to that in just a little bit. Christi and I have been trying to find some fundraising events to do and people have sent a bunch of great ideas, we will let you know what we are planning something very soon. People have been extremely generous, it is overwhelming the generosity out there. This is an updated list of more people that have sent money:

Justin Jacquinot
Chip and Kathy Lee
Phil Graham
Daniel and Andrea Cain
Cody and Jennifer Foster
Jay West
Terry Morgan
Isaiah Smith
John and Kim Salvatore

I am very happy to say that the total is $5725.00. This is great. I am asking for one more favor - ask anyone you can to send a donation as well. They can send it to:

Addi's Cure
c/o Bo Johnson
19520 West Catawba Ave
Suite 200
Cornelius, NC 28031

My next line of fire is to ask some of the companies that I work with for dome help. I am hoping to raise $100k by December 31. It is really a big goal. I need everyones help.

Addi, Christi and I are very pumped about how things are going. See you soon!

Monday, October 16, 2006

Several things to get to today so please read all of this. Very important!

I want to thank Neal Karn for putting together a book for me with pictures and words of encouragement from a lot of my friends. It must have been very difficult to coordinate all of that, and I was touched! It was really awesome and I want to thank everyone for sending in stuff to Neal. It made me tear up....

I also wanted to give an update on Addi's Cure. It is very important to me that this project be VERY successful. We have started designing the website (Lauren and Anna) and letterhead, and I have everything to set up the banking except for the tax id number which should be here this week. We have brainstormed for our first event, and there have been several good suggestions: casino night, New Years Eve Bash, bike race, walk race, funny tri-atholon, bake sale, and many more. We are trying to have something before the end of the year. I would like to have two things annually, one in the spring, one in the late fall. IF YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS, PLEASE EMAIL ME OR PUT IN A COMMENT! Your giving has been overwhelming and I appreciate it. Here is another list of people who have given:

Chris and Crystal Dodds (Christi's sister and brother in law)
Larry and Terri Morgan (Christi's parents)
Mike Katzer (Christi's uncle)
Mike and Caroline Mullan (my sister and brother in law)
Tashawna Rodwell
Wade and Kenda Laughey
Terry and Anita Cook
God (not making fun, a nice girl sent me her tithe)
Kelly Stamey

These people sent in $1245.00, and the total so far is $3,870.00. Unbelievable!

Last but not least, I went to Norfolk this weekend to see a guy called Adam the healer. It was very interesting, and i learned several techniques for visualization. This is a guy I learned about on ABC, and so think he is a fraud. He never claimed to me to be anything other than someone who believes that each person has the ability to heal themselves. The science behind this is amazing and it shows how important it is to have the right environment around you at all times. This is not just where you live, but also the type of people around, what you eat, stress, etc. If anyone ever wants to check this guy out, you can go to dreamhealer.com and see for yourself. I learned as much about how to work with Addi as I did about me, so in both ways it was worth it.

Congrats to Merritt for being homecoming queen at WCU!

Love you all!

Friday, October 13, 2006

Today is all about Addi!

Today is my daughter's first birthday, and I am so proud. She is such an amazing little girl, so much spirit and personality. I can not even begin to express how much I love her.

We are having a party at a park here in town. She is going to have some little friends over to play, it will be fun. No ponies this year, she is too little, but there will be a bigger blow out next year. I would go ahead and schedule it, since the race may be the same weekend.

I know that a lot of people that read this are parents. I used to not understand how you could love someone so much that you would do anything for that person. I met Christi and felt this way, however, having a kid is different. If something does happen to me, I know that everyone might be sad, but it will get better for those people with time. Addi is a different story, because it would linger with her whenever someone asks about her daddy. I have promised her at least 5 years. I did that believing in medical science and God, knowing that they would take care of me after that.

Please say a little prayer for Addi today. She deserves it for one, and for two, she needs all the help she can get being my daughter.... :)

Tuesday, October 10, 2006

Sorry Bo fans, it's me Christi.
We made it back from Chemo #6, that last one in this cycle. Bo took it like a champ. We met briefly with the doctor, Susan, and from here on out we let Bo's body heal up and do his thing. I feel like this is the most important time in Bo's fight. We are strenuously concentrating on his diet, exercise and positive attitude, I think he has the last one down pat. The diet is moving up a notch. We are going to eat more green leafy veggies than any known person will eat. Bo is going to step up the exercise also, if anyone in our area likes to ride in the morning let us know, I can't keep up that well, tried, but hurts the Morgan rear. (Don't worry Terry, I won't let him work out to throw his PH Balance off) There is a theory that lactic acid feeds cancer as well, so we will just work out at a steady pace.

On a personal note, thank you to everyone praying for us, helping with Addi and supporting Addi's Cure. I think it is so important to educate people that lung cancer isn't a smoker's cancer. I get extremely frustrated when we tell people Bo has lung cancer and they say, "Oh I didn't know he smoked?" I kindly inform them smoking or not, no one deserves cancer. I think lung cancer is under funded because people blame others for having it because they smoked, that just isn't true. We have heard so many stories at Duke and from others of non-smokers having lung cancer. I figure the more people getting educated, hopefully, the more research and funding will happen. I told Bo today that I am going to write Oprah, Katie course and every other reporter out there about this and try to get someone to tell the whole story and Bo can then explain how he is fighting this and winning. Oh well, enough of that.
Sorry so long, but I talk a lot. Addi turns 1 Friday, the 13th! I wish we would have planned that better. So we are busy planning our little party. I am so excited that my Mom is flying out, I wish my whole family could be here, but I certainly understand.
Take care everyone and be safe
Love, Christi

Saturday, October 07, 2006

Addi's Cure Update:

I want to say thank you for everyone being so kind to donate to Addi's Cure. I also wanted to0 list everyone that has given, but I know someo people are funny about it, so i will just put the first name and last inital. We are working on an Addi's Cure website so everyone will be listed there as well. Here is the list:

Bob A. and Rebecca
Martha S.
Ryan P.
Angela M
Walker H. and Candace
Erin G.
Pamela B.
Susan S.
Katelyn H.
Maria T.
Jenn N. and Bill
Larry G.
Hutch G.
Ashley J.
Debbie M.
Rachel F. and Justin
Scott W. and Katie
Lisa S.

The total so far is $2,625,00. On December 31st, I am going to match whatever has been given up to $25,000. I am going to mail out letters to all of the companies I do business with and see if i can not get a little donations from them as well. All accounting will be avaiable on the website as well, so everyone can see what we are doing. Don't forget, I have not deposited any check yet because I am waiting on one thing the bank needs. I will have it by the end of next week.

Thanks for everything from all of you!

Thursday, October 05, 2006

I wanted to start out by saying thank you for the outpouring of notes and checks to Addi's Cure. Just from the blog only, we have rasied over $2500. I am so impressed with you guys.

I would also ask that you send me some ideas on what kind of fund raiser to have first. Remember, whatever we can raise by December 31st, I will match up to $25,000! Give me some good ideas...

I was supposed to have chemo on Wed but one of my blood counts was too low. Bummer! However, there was very good news. If you read before or remember, the last time I had scans I said that I was stable, no reduction. Well that is not entirely true. I talked with the PA at Duke and they did a little more research on my scans. Although there was no major reduction, there was some.... Very pumped.

Also there is some good news on Mike D. He has lung cancer as well, and he has had a 50% reduction! Way to go Mike D.

Tomorrow is FIG's Golf Outing. I need to play well. Wish me luck....

Tuesday, October 03, 2006

Tomorrow is chemo time! Last one of the planned chemo, so I am excited. I have really done well so far, and I am not expecting anything less.

I am really excited about many people sending in cards with a donation for Addi's Cure. I will list everyone this weekend on the blog to say thank you. I am so excited. Christi and I are trying to plan our first event before the end of the year. I think it will be a hoot. Seriously, thank you to all.

This week has been busy! Addi has been a trooper and is doing so well. Christi is doing well also. Last night, we had salmon from Alaska from Dave Whitehead in Philly. It was really good, so thanks Dave!

I will check in tomorrow night to tell you how chemo went.

Sunday, October 01, 2006

The wedding of the century is over, and Caroline and Mike are headed to HI for the honeymoon. It will be difficult to call her Caroline Mullan, but I got used to Tracia Beasley so I am sure I will get along. There has been a lot to do with the wedding this weekend, so I will start with Friday golf. Curtis (Christi's brother) and I were paired up with Mike's dad Bruce. We played at Raintree. It was a great day, lots of fun. Basically, Curtis and I played bad. I always wonder why I play bad, since I play all of the time!!!! Any way, we had fun. Friday night was the rehearsal dinner, and it was at a place called A Room with a View. It was very nice and Addi was a star there as well as Caroline. I also got the first donation for Addi's Cure there, from Mr. Bob Axelrod. Thanks Bob, and thanks for the extra couple of zeros!

Saturday was the big day. I had to be down there at 3:30 or so. I was a groomsmen as well as walked Caroline down the isle. It was a nice wedding, and Caroline certainly looked beautiful. Addi was the flower girl, and she made it down the aisle pretty well with Christi's help. The reception was awesome, but I have to admit that it was hard. No matter how confident you are about cancer, you always wonder things. I was dancing with Addi and I wondered if I was going to be around on her wedding day. It made me sad. I also hate that Caroline is always going to have to look at her wedding pictures and see my bald head. Whether it turns out good or bad for me, Caroline will always have that memory.

Addi loves the music so when the band was playing she was dancing. It was really funny. Sunday we are going to have brunch with my dad, then take Curtis and Erin to the airport. Their daughter Ryan is so cute.

All in all a fun weekend. I will do another post soon!

Thursday, September 28, 2006

I am back from Vegas. I arrived at 3:00 or so today. I was super busy, and I do think things went well. I had a good time, and hung out with Jeanne and Deenen, Steve, Shelly, Cindy, and Gayle, plus others. I saw a bunch of industry people there, so I know I am forgeting a lot of people.

Saw Danny Gans with Steve. Had an awesome dinner and the show was really good. Lost $200.00 in 17 minutes.... The main thing is I missed my girls, Addi and Christi.

Had a softball game tonight. 3 for 3 and we won. FIG is getting better....

Caroline, my LITTLE sister is getting married this weekend, so that will be fun. Curtis (CHristi's brother) and Erin are here as well with Ryan (daughter) and it is fun hanging out with them.

Check in with more later....

Monday, September 25, 2006

Question from the blog:

As far as Addi's Cure: Someone wanted to know what we were going to do with the 50% that we put into the bank account. I am sorry if I did not explain that correctly. Basically, whenever we have any kind of fundraiser, we will divide each dollar like this - 50 cents will go directly to research asap, and 50 cents will go into an interest bearing account. The interest earned each year will go to research as well. The principal amount will continue to grow. That mean each year the interest will get bigger and bigger. My goal is to have $100,000 in the account by the end of 2007. The big question is what happens if they find a cure for lung cancer? Then Addi's Cure will concentrate on any sickness that effects young children.

I am in Las Vegas and made it safe. Played golf today with Kevin, Justin, and David. We had a good time. I do miss Christi and Addi a lot.

Saturday, September 23, 2006


Today Addi, Christi, and I visited Lazy 5 Ranch in Mooresville, NC. It was really pretty cool. Rachel Faunce set it up and there were a lot of families there. We were on a horse drawn wagon, and it took us through several hundred acres of all kinds of exotic animals. Water buffalo, bison, elk, emu, rino, giraffe, you name it, they had it. Addi really fed one of the giraffes. I put food in her hand and she feed him. 11 months old and NO FEAR. In this picture, we are standing on the rails of the wagon, so Addi is about 15 feet off the ground. Justin Faunce and his son Byars is in the picture with us.

After that we came home to rest. Addi took a nap and I went to take a golf lesson. When I got back we headed out to dinner with Bill and Jo, Tracia and Joel, and Caroline and Mike. It was really good. After dinner, even though she was dressed up, we let Addi get into the fountain. Outside this mall they have a little fountain where the water shoots up off timers. She loved it. Tonight, I have to pack as I am leaving for Las Vegas in the morning.

In Las Vegas, I have a board meeting with NAFA and I also have to speak at a conference for SMA Magazine. Should be interesting, although when I planed this I was coming back on Tuesday so I did not bring Addi. Then SMA called and wanted me to extend and not leave until Thursday morning... You know my rule, more than a couple of days, Addi is with me.

I want to thank the Vance family for cooking us dinner on Friday night. It was really good. I had it on Sat as well for lunch!

Just to see if people are still reading this blog I have a favor to ask. Christi and I started a 501(c) non-profit called Addi's Cure. This organization will benefit lung cancer. Basically, out of the money we raise, 50% goes right away to research at Duke, specifically for lung cancer. The other 50% goes into a bank account. Each year, whatever the account earns goes to research. No fees, no admin cost, and no salaries. Any way, I am asking everyone who reads this post send $1.00 check to Addi's Cure. You can send more if you wish, but please send at least the $1.00. If you send $50.00 or more, we will send you back a tax deductible letter for your accountant. Send it to:

Addi Cure
c/o Bo Johnson at FIG
19520 West Catawba Ave.
Suite 200
Cornelius, NC 28031

I will do my best to update from Vegas. Be patient with me!

Thursday, September 21, 2006

Today was a really crazy day. I had a lot of meetings, met Addi and Christi for lunch, had a lot of meetings, had a cocktail in Charlotte, then a softball game. What a day!

Business is good, life is good, and everything is awesome. I am feeling way better now. I did have a rough couple of days. I have one more chremo to go, then we will see. This weekend Addi, Christi and I are going to a place called Lazy 5 Ranch where Addi can see some animals up close. It will be fun....

Sunday - Vegas!

Tuesday, September 19, 2006

Food Report for the last couple of days...

turkey, rice, chicken, eggs, SAME OLE THING!

Hope everyone is doing well. This week has gone by pretty fast. I have felt a lot better today. I want everyone to know that to know I was going to live, I would take the worst day I have had so far and live that way every day, so it is not been to bad. I have had a lot of time in the office this week, so it has been good. Next week I am off to Vegas for the NAFA meeting where I am on the board, then the Senior Market Expo is there as well later in the week and I am speaking at that as well. Should be fun. Then flying back in time to go to my sister's wedding. Caroline is like a daughter to me, she was born when I was 8 years old. I took her everywhere with me when I was little. She is awesome and I am glad she is happy, although, there is still time for runaway bride....

I pray every night that I will be there for Addi's wedding. Come on medical science, get to work! I do believe God is on my side.

Also, thanks to everyone that has posted comments. I do not know how to reply back, but thank you. (Yes Stu, I am taking you to a Bobcats game! Call me)

See you soon!

Sunday, September 17, 2006

Report from the weekend:

Friday was a normal day. I felt pretty darn good after chemo on Thursday. I went to work and that night took it easy. We actually had steak on Friday night. The doctors said my hemoglobin were getting a little low and to eat red meat and spinach.

Saturday morning I went to Jacob Lee's birthday party. It was at a place called Monkey Joe's. It was a lot of fun. Addi was really funny going down the slides, etc. by herself. I am serious, some of the slides she went down there were 3 year olds that would not go down them. We are going to be in trouble later. FEARLESS. I had to leave early and take Chris Vance, Shawn, and Charles to pay golf at 12:30 or so. We had fun, but I have to admit this cycle of chemo has been the worse. Joints are very sore and feeling wiped out. Played ok, took 18 off so that should tell you something. That night we played with Addi and just hung out again. Christi has been going right along with me almost everywhere so I think she is a little worn out as well.

Sunday I had to get up early and go to Hendersonville. Mike, Joel, and I are playing golf early with my buddies from Hendersonville, then we are going to Mike and Caroline's shower at 2:00. We had to leave at 7:00 am. Early. I had a little bit of a tough time getting out of bed. The 3rd day after chemo is typically my worst per Christi. We played a place called Cleghorn. Very nice and they are really working on it. Then went to Hendersonville for the shower which was good. Saw my dad and grandpa, plus a lot of Johnson's. Everyone is Hendersonville is laid back and cool. Saw my cousin Merritt who is getting to be such a sweet young lady. She is a senior and is actually responsible now! We drove home tonight and just hung out. I really was tired tonight and just needed to rest. I got in bed around 8:30 and just stayed there. See you soon!

Thursday, September 14, 2006

Food Report

Morning - poached eggs and shake (strawberry and banana)
Lunch - turkey wrap at Duke
Dinner - Wendy's fresca sandwich

Today I had to leave for Duke at 4:30 am. This was tough because it was early, but also because I was in MN and did not get back until around 9:30 pm the night before. I got to be about 11:00. I will explain MN in a minute.

Had a CT scan done today. Waited for the doc to look at it, then got the good news of no growth. Of course the best news would have been another reduction, but no growth is good news as well. I saw Dr. Garst today since Dr. Crawford was out, and she was very nice. She did say she had a couple of patients that have been stable on Tarceva for years. Bill and Jo were there, and this made them feel very good as well. I feel great about it, however I was a little disappointed based on the fact that I had basically busted down every wall I have faced, and this time it was just good news. Just being honest.

I went to MN to see a company that we do business with. This company is Allianz. They had been really doing some things that our company and other companies like mine were worried about. Basically they had gotten "too big for their britches" as my grandpa would say. This meeting was about clearing the air and having a shared vision for the future. I do hope this happens. Allianz has some good people, I am just not sure if those people are in a position to really make the final calls. However, they are working on it and at least see there is a problem, just not sure if they see the real problem. Back to why you should be reading this part:

One of the things they did was have Jim Craig come and speak. If you have seen the movie Miracles from Disney about the 1980 gold medal hockey team, then you know he was the great goalie. He was a very good speaker and really nice guy. He talked about partnership and shared vision. I hope BOTH sides were listening. At the end, Allianz had a drawing for a framed picture of the 980 hockey team that was an action shot showing all of them together in celebration right after the final horn sounded. It is a very famous shot and it is signed everyone of the players. I won it and was very pleased. I was called up on stage and got my picture with Eric Thomes (famous for other things including playing golf in boxers at our annual beach trip, dressing up like a Hooters' girl at Hooters in Myrtle Beach and I have pictures to prove it) and Jim Craig. It was very cool and I am very proud to tell you this story.
Message from Tracia again...

Bo has been in MN for the last couple of days. He returned to Cornelius late last night only to leave for Duke this morning around 4:00 am for a new scan and another chemo treatment. Stay tuned....

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

Food Report

Morning - fruit
Lunch - salad and fruit
dinner - walleye, tomato soup, salad, green beans

Today I flew to MN for a meeting that will last until tomorrow at 2:00. I went to see a company that we have done business with for a long time. Everyone was very nice. I do forget that people have not seen me and they see this situation in a different light. Some people look at me and see dead man walking, some people truly believe I will beat this, and some do not know what to think. I certainly understand that this is hard for everyone, not just me and my family. I try my best to answer all questions and to give them hope, at least what I can give them.

On trip, eating and exercise is hard. I usually eat pretty good, and most hotels have a fitness room. Tonight I rode a stationary bike for 25 minutes.

Tomorrow Addi will be 11 months. She is getting so big!

Thursday I get scans and chemo. Everyone cross your fingers.....

Monday, September 11, 2006

Let me say this first: SORRY!

I know it has been slow for me to post lately, but I will do better. It has been a busy few weeks. I think I can say it best that I feel so good and I am trying to do all the stuff I can do!

Addi and Christi are doing great.... Addi is growing like a weed....

Last week I was in Indy for a meeting, this week I will be in Minneapolis. Work is really good now. Everything is going well, except golf!

I will try my best not to let you down again. I go back to chemo on the 14th and get some scans then as well. I will let you know how that goes. This weekend will be busy as well. I have business people coming into play golf on Sat, then Caroline's wedding shower on Sun.



See you soon!

Monday, September 04, 2006

Food Report

Morning - eggs and shake
Lunch - grapes and chicken
Dinner - BLTs and rice chips

Today is Christi's actual birthday, so she is 30! We got up this morning and her family is still in town. We hung out with them, then Chris Dodds and I went to play golf. We came back and they had pizza and ice cream cake (I got a little ice cream cake!) and we watch the FSU-Miami game. They also play cards all the time, which I have no clue about.

It was a great Labor Day weekend. All of my family was around me, Charlotte and Kansas, Christi had a great time at her birthday party, and of course Addi was awesome. I hope everyone had a wonderful labor Day as well.

Sunday, September 03, 2006

Food Report

Morning - eggs and shake
Lunch - chicken and rice
dinner - chicken and asparagus

Today was Christi's surprise birthday party. We had it at an Italian restaurant and there were 40 or so people that came. Christi's parents were in town, as well as Aunt marlin, uncle Leon, Crystal, Chris, Wyatt, Mike, Amy, and the old lady Cyndi. It was a big surprise to her, and I think she loved it.

During the day, we visited Metrolina, a big antique show. It was a lot of fun. Christi and I got another English tea box and an oriental vase.

Friday, September 01, 2006

Food Report

Morning eggs, shake
Lunch - BLTs with turkey bacon, grapes
Dinner - apples, cereal, grapes

Todat was good at work. Had a lot to do but I am getting caught up. Christi's family came in tonight so we hung out with them. Her dad, mom, Uncle Leon, Aunt Marylin came in, with Chris, Crystal, Cyndi, Amy, and Mike coming tomorrow....

Busy weekend.

Thursday, August 31, 2006

Food Report:

Breakfast - eggs, shake
Lunch - turkey burger, grapes, chicken
Dinner - soup and chicken sandwich

I was bummed tonight because our softball game got cancelled. I pitch and Christi plays second/catcher. We have already had one practice game, but this was the "real" first game. We went to Gymboree instead with Addi so she could play. She did great of course. We saw Amy and Shawn there and went to dinner with them. College football was on tonight so I am pretty happy.

All of the Kansas folks are coming in this weekend for Christi's birthday.

Wednesday, August 30, 2006


I am back from the beach!

Food Report

Morning - 4 eggs, shake
Lunch - rice and veggies, water
Dinner - chicken, rice, beans, corn, water

I am back from the beach. Christi, Addi, and I went to Myrtle Beach this weekend with Phil and Lena and my two godchildren Peyton and Patterson. We had a blast. Phil and Lena rented a place right on the water and of course we crashed. We went down on Saturday and came back on Tuesday evening. Phil and Lena will be there all week. I had a lot of fun really hanging out with the Graham family. Phil and I played golf two of the days, and then went back to see the girls on the beach. Addi was really funny on the beach. We video taped her, and I hope I will see the same look that she had on her face when she was at the beach everyday. It was priceless!

I rode twice down at the beach. It was nice to have a flat place to ride. It was harder with the wind when I was coming back, but all in all, it was a good ride. If you are going to buy something at the beach, hurry, they are going fast!

Tuesday, August 29, 2006

Message from Bo's big sister, Tracia

Bo has been at the beach this past weekend and is due back home later tonight. I think he recognized that some of us were having "blog withdrawal" symptoms, so he decided to recruit me to add a comment.

The readers of the blog are very aware of the ups and downs that Bo's diagnosis of lung cancer has created for Bo, his family and his friends. I guess one of the most striking outcomes for me has been the "call to action" that so many of you have taken on. Many have offered interesting articles and information- some ideas have been quite bizarre. Others have offered words of encouragement and hope. Still others have been quietly supportive with prayers and postive thoughts. For Bo and our family, all of your support, in whatever way it has been offered, has been greatly appreciated.

For the family, our days are as normal as possible. We try to not to dwell on Bo's cancer, but rather enjoy spending time with each other whenever possible. Of course, on treatment days, anxieties run high, and time creaks by so slowly on the days when new scans are on the agenda at Duke. We celebrate good news, and resolve to push forward no matter what future challenges we may have to overcome.

As his big sister, it wouldn't be right if I left without telling you some truths about Bo. Yes, Bo is doing is fine. No, he hasn't slowed down AT ALL! Yes, he still is deflecting teasing comments onto the closest unsuspecting individual. No, the light reflecting off of his shiny head doesn't require the use of sunglasses. Yes, he still sports that cheesy grin. No, his personality hasn't changed a bit. And yes, his big sister loves him (but don't tell him that!)

Thursday, August 24, 2006

Food Report

Morning - shake, eggs, waffles, turkey bacon
Lunch - grouper and veggies
Dinner - jambalaya

I went into work at 8:30 am and it was a really good day. We had a busy day with lots of people in the office. Arin M. came in today to have lunch with me from Miami. We had a really good time. After work I came home and we went to the FIG softball game. I pitched, and we did ok. Since it was a scrimmage, I only batted once. I got a single and then went to second on the throw in. Was stranded! Our team needs a little practice, but we had a lot of fun.

Arin and Blake came by tonight. We chatted and had fun talking about the old days. They are going to try to make it in for a bike ride in the morning....

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

Food Report

Morning - cereal and shake
Lunch - 2 turkey wraps at Duke
Dinner - fresca sandwich from Wendy's, blue berry shake at DQ (ritual)

Today I went to Duke for a check up and chemo. Everything checks out ok and looks good. Brian W. and Nick S. came by to see me. We chatted about old frat days, etc. I did want to make one clarification on Brian: It is just my opinion he is off the market, there is no hard evidence to support my theory, just a lot of circumstantial evidence. (kind of like OJ!) If the ring won't fit, you must acquit! On that note, Nick is single as they come, so if anyone knows any hip ladies in the Raleigh area, let me know....

I am taking a pill that has enzymes in it to help you break down your food. Put it this way - I have laid enough bricks to build a house. I know that is gross, but getting unneeded things out of your body is really good for you. This is something that everyone should think about. I am still loopy from the drugs, that is why I had the audacity to put this part....

I feel good about everything and really am up beat. Tomorrow is coming, I believe that every day!

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

It's me, Christi again. Bo just asked me to write a little, in honor of yesterday. The day before chemo always seems to be a little more frantic than a usual day, which for me is always scattered. (Anyone with a very, very mobile 10 month old would probably understand or anyone knowing Bo) I am so lucky to have friends and family willing to help out with Addi and the Buddies. I can't express how grateful I am to everyone helping and even just offering to help. (Thanks to Lena, Tracia, Anna, and Candace this time - no Addi doesn't need 4 people, we work in shifts here people)

Things are pretty good in the Johnson house. Bo is still eating us out of house and home, (any farmers out there, we will take donations of organic fruits and veggies, just kidding) He is amazing with his determination, but I do have to say when you have a little girl that thinks the sun rises and sets on you, it doesn't hurt in the motivation. (His wife thinks this also, but with his head bald it just seems to be getting bigger and bigger, so the compliments are limited)

We are both looking into getting into some races, I am not one to be out done. He is looking into his bike racing and triathlon, I might start with a 5k and the a half marathon, thanks to Rachel. Back to Addi, she will beat us both in either race, seriously the kid is fast and can climb like a champ. She is really into climbing by putting one foot over and then the other. There is a little more talking happening also. Last night, sorry Bo, her and her Daddy had a dance marathon. I think she might have the Morgan rear, (Lee Bradley) she certainly likes to shake it.

Well that is enough rambling here. I love my family and love everyone out there praying for us. We will do everything possible to beat this thing. Please keep the prayers, information, well wishes, visits and thoughts coming. Everyone's kindness gives me hope for the world my little girl will grow up in. With the things we hear about these days, people need to know how great everyone is. We hope to see many of you soon, either at our house or we will come to yours.

Christi

PS I have no clue what Bo ate today...

Monday, August 21, 2006


Food Report

Morning - eggs and water
Lunch - chicken and veggies
Dinner - chicken and veggies

Tonight I want to dedicate the blog to Candace Ham. She has really been good to the Johnson Family. She has watch Addi every time we have had to go to chemo, spent a lot of time with Christi, and even cooked meals for us. She did another meal tonight. Candace is a really sweet woman that everyone should know.

I had a good day at work. It was good to get back. Lee Bradley ended up 10th out of 100 so he did a good job today.

I started a new class in my masters program tonight. It looks like it is going to be very interesting....

I also attached a photo of me and Addi....

Sunday, August 20, 2006

Food Report

Morning - cereal, ban, apple, pear
Brunch - I can not say, Christi will kill me
Dinner - fish, rice, veggies

Today I was at Pinehurst and went into the second round of this tournament. I did not fare well today, but Lee Bradley did very well. He finished up 3 strokes off the pace and is in contention for the win. Since I am not in contention, I decided to go back to Charlotte and not finish with the third round. I was really wanting to see Addi and really was tired. I played 3 rounds in three days, hit a lot of extra balls the first day, rode bike and walked a lot the second day, and I am ready to go home. Lee understood so off I went. Got home at 6:30 pm and had dinner at my Mom's house. I was so happy to see Addi. She changed just in the few days I was gone....

Saturday, August 19, 2006

Food Report

Morning - banana, pear, OJ, apple
Lunch - nothing!
Dinner - bison burger, salad, soup

Today was the first round of the tourn and I am 10 strokes out, and Lee is 9. We played Pinehurst No. 5. It was ok, but I did not love this course. Lee and I went into Southern Pines for dinner. Pinehurst is having a scare with the water system and it makes it very hard to eat here. You can take a shower, but you can not even brush your teeth with tap water. E-coli is what they think is in the water.

Golfing tomorrow at No. 8.

I have to dedicate this blog to Eric Thomes. He has always been a good friend and is the reason I am at Pinehurst. He is a good guy with a great family.

Friday, August 18, 2006

Food Report

Morning - berries and fruit, oj, eggs
Lunch - Chinese salad
Dinner - rice, lima beans, strawberries, salad, pork chop

Today I played Pinehurst No. 8 for a practice round. I had a good time since Lee was there. I have played this course once before, but it was in 2000 and I did not really remember it. I started with a drive into what they call "Love Grass" and there was no love! Triple...

The two guys we played with were really nice. I shot a 97 and did not score well, but I did hit the ball better. I am excited this was a practice round. Had a dinner tonight and I am tired. Lee and I hit a lot of balls today.

Thursday, August 17, 2006

Food Report

Morning - Food report
Lunch - left overs from Christi's great meal
Dinner - chicken and rice

Today I left to go to Pinehurst for the golf deal I talked about earlier. I will tell you, cancer is affecting my sense of direction I think. I had a difficult time getting down here. Pinehurst is really a great place. It is a great weekend deal for anyone. It is better if you play golf of course, however, the person who does not play golf will like it to. Lee Bradley is here with me and he made it in, so we are getting ready to show our stuff for tomorrow.

Wednesday, August 16, 2006

Food Report

Morning - eggs, turkey bacon, and shake
Lunch - left over kabobs
Dinner - Salmon with tomatoes and garlic, blackbeans and rice

Today was fun at work. Really spent a lot of time with Addi tonight. Christi, Addi, and I are going to HI in Nov so I had to get a babysitter to come. Our summer intern Kristen is going with us. Everything health wise is really going well. I feel great and I am hopeful that it continues....

Tuesday, August 15, 2006

Food Report

Morning - turkey bacon (found some without nitrates!) and cereal
Lunch - chicken and squash
Dinner - kabob, rice, and a good dessert (compliments of the Vance family)

I was so happy to see Addi this morning. She was pumped to see me as well. I had a really crazy day today. Lots of work!

I got my new bike today. I bought a road bike and it is really light. Jay is putting it together. He helped me order it from one of his buddies and we got it shipped here. I will be excited to ride it tomorrow.

Tonight's blog is dedicated to the Vance family. Chris and I work together, and his wife Tracy I am sure cooked the meal. It was very good, and I ate basically all of the rice and 5 kabobs. Thinking about eating a couple of more as I type. They have two great kids, Hannah and CJ. Christi said they played very nice with Addi today, as she loves "big" kids. CJ and Hannah have made me big cards before and such. Kids are really great.

All for now!

Monday, August 14, 2006

Food Report

Morning - scrambled eggs, fruit (hotel)
Lunch - Salmon and asparagus (thanks Carl!)
Dinner - salad and soup

Spent the morning with the big producer. They have an awesome system and are truly nice people. We had a good conversation and I think we will do some good business with them. His wife was really cool and Laura and Curtis were really nice as well. They also gave me an article about a man who had another kind of cancer. Basically, it was not good news. However, he had remembered that his daughter's dog had the same cancer and they had given him the Chinese herb to take. He took it as well and he is cancer free. I am not saying you should do this, all I am saying is that it can't hurt!

Afternoon was spent at LSW. I got to see Amber, Alma, rondo, and Sandy. Amber is a really great gal. Alma reads my blog all the time, and well Sandy and I have been around the block together many times in business. rondo is sweet when I call as well. All nice people. I have known this company for 10 years now, so it was seeing old friends. I met with Carl and Jay for awhile. I hope we can do more business with them, we will see. I also meet Bobbie. She was waiting for me there and was really nice. I buy some supplements from her.

Went to the airport and hung out until the flight. Was bummed I was not getting in until after Addi was in bed. I will get to see her tomorrow.

Sunday, August 13, 2006

Food Report

Morning - eggs and shake
Lunch - Salad and chicken
Dinner - salmon and asparagus

Today I left for Dallas, TX with Jim to see a big hitter. We played golf at Glen Eagles Country Club in Plano, Texas. We had a really good time. We played the Kings course and yes, it was very hard. It was also very hot. 103 was the temp when we started. Warm to say the least. I played awful, which is why I have a lesson coming up on Wed of next week. We had dinner and it was really enjoyable....

Went to bed missing Addi and Christi.

Saturday, August 12, 2006

Food Report

Morning - cereal and rice milk
Lunch - turkey, green beans
Dinner - going out to eat tonight, we will see....

Today is a special dedication of the blog. Many of you know that before all of this crazy cancer stuff, I was really busy but still decided to get a masters degree. I started last April getting my Master of Science in Management with an emphasis in leadership in PA. Basically an MSM(l). One of the people in my program is Jim from California. During our first residency, we meet everyone and basically were really busy, so we spend breakfast through 9:00 pm with our cohorts. Jim and I talked several times, and one of the most interesting things I thought was his distance running. Honestly, it was unbelievable. He would talk about doing 60 miles or 100 miles. I was very impressed and as most of you know, I asked several questions. Jim was very nice like everyone in the program is. It is really a top notch program with great people.

When I found out I had the big C, I panicked a little. I decided to step away from the program. When I did, all of the people in the program sent me a nice deal of food, like a basket. Very sweet. Like I said, great people all. A little later, Jim sent me a book and told me that he was going to carry a picture of Addi in one of his "little" endurance runs and dedicate it to me and Addi. What a nice thing to do right? OK, here is the CRAZY part. This "little" run is called the Western States Endurance Run. It is 100 miles! It is not a track run; it is over a lot of different terrain and trails. In some of the pictures in the magazine (it is the 33rd one) there is snow. This thing is in June people. That is some major hills! To see this trail, go to www.ws100.com and look for yourself.

Over time, with all that is happening, I guess this kind of left my mind. Jim sent me a package a few weeks ago, and it brought tears to my eyes. In the package was a magazine that described the race, a t-shirt for Addi, a bandanna for Addi, hat for me, and pictures with a note. He also included the picture of Addi that he carried for all 100 miles. (By the way, he did it in 18:09, again, amazing!) I almost broke down. (Maybe I did :))

My point is that Jim, someone I have met and known, but not as well as I wish, did an amazing thing for me and my family. For everyone out there that thinks this world is all bad, all you have to do is look at Jim and his wife Joni. They did a very nice thing for my family. Not out of obligation, but just out of being good people.

I dedicate this entry to Jim and Joni. May good things happen to them all of their lives. They sure do deserve it.

Friday, August 11, 2006

Food Report

Morning - 4 poached eggs, toast with jelly
Lunch - grilled chicken salad, fruit
Dinner - Kasey's leftovers, plus Tracia's leftovers

This blog is dedicated to Jay R. He has been my riding companion and I am pretty upset he is moving to Scottsdale. However, he is going to start FIG of the West, so I am happy about that. He is not my twin, since he is a bald guy too. See the bald comment at the bottom, Jay is the same.

I need your help. My cousin Merritt asked me a simple question: "Do you eat eggs everyday?" The answer is basically yes. If you are out there and know of something else you think I can eat to help change things up, post it on the blog. I am getting bored of eggs.

I got up and rode this morning. Work was great. Tina Bradley sent Christi and I some really cool stuff. Christi, Addi and I met Jenny for lunch today. She gave Addi a present, a stuffed frog. Addi really liked it. She gave me a book from Joel Osteen. Her daddy, a really cool guy, gave me a Cleveland Wedge. Joyce reads my blog all the time. The Simpson family has always been so nice to me.

After lunch I realized that I have to go to Dallas on Sunday to meet with a huge producer. I am sad to even be gone from Addi and Christi one day. I will miss them.

Bill and Jo came over for dinner tonight. Addi and I played a lot tonight as Christi went out for a minute to the store. I gave Addi her bath. She is SO AWESOME!

Last but not least, I do not want to lose any readers. What do you want to hear from me? I am not really sure what to say to you. Basically I feel fine and I have cancer. Other than that, my life is pretty normal. Yes, I am worried about kicking the bucket. No, I have not given up. Yes, I am a handsome bald guy. My buddy Brian is a catch, but I do think he is getting ready to be off the market for good.

Is there anything else?

Thursday, August 10, 2006

Food Report

Morning - 4 poached eggs, toast with jelly
Lunch - salmon , fruit, water
Dinner - salmon, asparagus, rice, sweet pot wedges, honey, and water from Kasey

Thursday was a normal day. I rode a little that evening, not in the morning. Greg was in to see us at work, and it was fun talking to him. Really, not much happened.

Played with Addi. I think this is what bothers me most about cancer. Addi deserves a father. I am a good father to Addi and I want her to grow up and have a great home and all of the advantages. I have worked very hard to have these for my family, and boom, cancer comes along. It is very important that everyone keeps me in their thoughts and prayers, not for my sake, but for Addi's sake.

I dedicate the blog to Wes and Kasey. The dinner was great and I know it took her awhile to make it. Thanks Kasey....

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

Food Report

Morning - four poached eggs, oats, shake
Lunch - grilled chicken salad, water
Dinner - Turkey. potatoes, beans, carrots, water

Today I started with a short bike ride. I went into work and it was a tough day. I had a very bad call to make this afternoon. I did go to my alternative doctor today and she helped me a lot. Afternoon was busy. I had to also find a little time to finish up my paper for my masters class. Tonight, I played with Addi. She is crazy. We went for a walk outside and she was really fun. Christi shampooed all of our carpet on the top floor, middle floor, and the basement. She is really incredible. She is really starting to get the house coming together. With 3 dogs and a kid, that is hard.

Blog Dedication Time - Tracia has watched Addi for us numerous times as well as done anything we asked. Tonight she fixed dinner for us on her day off. It was really good. She will have to comment to tell you how she did it, but the potatoes were fab and the turkey was really good. She has really been supportive and helpful. She is my big sister.

See you soon!

Tuesday, August 08, 2006

Food Report

Morning - 4 poached eggs, Irish oats, shake
Lunch - chicken, potatoes, beans, water
Dinner - Rice pasta with tomatoes, artichoke, and alvacodo, water

Work was fun. I am excited about many upcoming events. The crew from Kansas is making their way out over the Labor Day weekend. It is really nice because that also is near Christi's birthday. Family is important. Have someone tell you that you are dying and you will know what I mean. It has really made me think about a lot of stuff. Material things really do not matter, security for you family does. So here is a lesson for tonight: Do what you need to do to protect your family in case something happens to you. Get a power of attorney, trust, life insurance, etc. It really is important. I am very about two things - 1. I have most everything in order. 2. I would have had time (remember, I am going to beat this thing...)

I am not trying to preach but I think everyone needs to hear this.

Since I did not ride this morning, and tonight I have worked on my "opportunity for learning" for my masters, I have to go bike in the dark. I sure wish I would have ridden this morning!

Monday, August 07, 2006

Food Report:

Morning - four poached eggs, shake
Lunch - Dijon mustard chicken and rice, oj
Dinner - snapper with salsa, sweet potatoes, cauliflower, oj

Lunch and Dinner were Christi's recipes, and they were both good...

Today started with a 12 mile bike ride with Jay. We did it in a little over an hour. My legs were hurting to say the least. Then Monday started like every other Monday, the Monday Morning meeting. After that it was really good to be at work. Came home tonight and played with Addi some. She is amazing. I am a little worried about Christi, she is tired. Her parents are coming out soon so I hope that will pep her up some. She is doing a really good job supporting me.

I found out some really good news! My buddy Eric asked me to go to the People vs. The Pros (www.pvpgolf.com) and compete. Again, I know it is not because I am a good golfer. Anyway, it is really a nice event. Allianz is a title sponsor with the PGA Tour (maybe Senior) and they had two spots open. I am taking Lee B. with me so it will be fun. It is at Pinehurst and I am against Lee and 198 other golfers I think. If I were to win (ha) I would play Ratief Goosen on Aug 22 on ESPN. If I did I would paint Allianz on my chest.... (scary)

I want to dedicate this blog to my family. Christi and Addi have been just great during this deal. Mom and Bill have been super supportive both personally and business wise. Tracia/Joel and Caroline/Mike have been great and have done everything they can for us. Daniel/Andrea have tried to help from Thomasville and golf wise. :) Dad and Papa have come down and tried to do all they can. Terry Lee and the family in Kansas have done all they can from afar. Christi's mom Terri is trying to get out here soon. Erin/Curtis/Cindy/Crystal/Clint have been a rock for Christi who I am most worried about. I know I have forgotten so many people in my family and Christi's family that have wished us well. For that I am sorry. But please know we love all of you guys and THANKS FOR THE HELP!

Sunday, August 06, 2006

Food Report

Morning - Cereal and fruit, rice milk
Lunch - left over ka-bobs from Lena, rice and beans, water
Dinner - chicken, potatoes, green beans, cooked apples, water

Woke up and played with Addi. We did not go to church this week. Bad. We then went over to Scott W's house for a party for David and Natalie. It was very nice. After that I went over to Mom's house for dinner. Debbie A and Coe A were there from Hendersonville. It was nice to catch up with them. The last time I saw Coe was when I was 10....

I did ride today as well. I had a good ride. I have been riding a moutain bile but have decided to get a rode bike as well. Scott W. had just about talked me into doing a triathalon at the end of August. However, I can not find one that has not filled up that I think I can do. So, I am going to see if maybe I can do an unofficial one. It would be nice to raise money for lung cancer as well. We will have to see. I am not worried about the biking of course, but the running sort of, the swimming for sure. It would be a mini one of sorts: 15 miles on the bike, 3 mile run, and 750 meters in the water. We will have to see....

I want to dedicate this blog to Lena. Not only did she fix me dinner, but I know she has been one of the people that keep Christi sane. (shout out to Candace soon!) She is a really good friend of mine that is married to a really good friend of mine. Phil and Lena are also godfather and mother to Addi. She has really been supportive of this crazy time. Lena lost her mother to cancer, so she really knows how to help Christi I think. I am going to do my best to make sure there is not another lost to cancer in her life.

Saturday, August 05, 2006

Food Report

Morning - Cereal
Lunch - 3 turkey patties, baked beans, tomatoes
Dinner - chicken, green beans, rice

Special Note: remember, everything I eat pretty much is good for me. I try really hard at this. Example is the cereal I am eating. It is gluten free and made of all organic stuff. With rice milk, I would say it is good for me. Most of the time I eat with fruit. I had to find something besides eggs to eat every day.

Today started with golf with Jim, Kevin, Dave S. and me. We played at River Run because there was a tournament at the Peninsula. We played a match with teams and tied. I had four quads again, so needless to say I need to practice even more.

After that, I had to go to the FIG picnic. There were supposed to be 80 people there and I am not so sure how many ended up coming. It was really fun, and I took Addi around, went in a canoe, etc.

Tonight I hung out with Addi, Christi, and our dogs. It was Bonnie and Charlie's birthday today, two years old. Remember, I love those dog, just did not want to get them. I honestly can not think of what it would be like not to have them. It was a really good day. The only side effect I am having from the latest chemo is I am a little tired more so than the others, and when I have chemo it makes my face worse. All in all, I am dealing well with it.

As you are praying for me, please ask God to take the cancer from me. I honestly think that Addi is praying for that. I do not want to leave my little girl. Period. She is so good.

Thanks for listening!

Thursday, August 03, 2006

Sorry for the confusion earlier, I got some dates mixed up.

The food report:

morning - had fruit and eggs
lunch - Leftovers in the Fridge
dinner - tuna, potato with onions and tomatos, rice - Lena made me a great meal of chicken kabobs, but Christi and I soon realized that our grill is still over at Bill and Jo's house from the 4th of July. We will have to enjoy those tomorrow night! Thanks Lena.

Today was a little tough. Chemo got to me a little. I made it through the day, however, I was really tired. Jay and I rode that night at Lake Norman State Park on a 7 mile trail. That was very hard. I was so tired at the end, going up and down the trail. I really was working hard. I really felt it in my joints. Hopefully this will get the chemo out!

Wednesday, August 02, 2006

Food Report:

Breakfast - cerral, shake, fresh fruit
Lunch - chicken stuff that was left over from Robin B. (it is spicy!), water
Dinner - chicken, brocolli, salad, rice milk

I rode my bike this morning. I was a little tired and my joints hurts some, but all in all it was a good ride. Work was very fun, although hetic. I got home from work late and then just tried to rest and hang out with Addi. She is basically walking now, just has trouble over 20 steps. She walks like an orangatang, it is really funny.

Sorry for the delay.

I feel very blessed that the chemo is going well, and I am not sick. Mike D. called me yesterday and he started his deal, so please remember him. Don't forget about my buddy Suzi as well.

See you soon....

Tuesday, August 01, 2006

Food report:

Morning - cereal with fruit
Lunch - cereal with fruit (no time)
Dinner - salmon, veggies, baked potato, noodles, and chicken stuff (from Robin B.)

The meeting we had today went great. I think we had 94 at the meeting, and everyone enjoyed themselves. Several people joked about me being bald, it was pretty funny. I think it shocked some people to find out. I guess I always think everyone knows.

Sorry about the spelling yesterday. When I have chemo, I type and spell worse than I do normally, which is bad enough.

Tonight we went to dinner for my sister's birthday. She is 26 years old. I still remember when she was born. Caroline means a lot to me. She always has.

I dedicate this day to Caroline and Robin B. Robin because she brought me dinner, and Caroline just because she is important to me.

Monday, July 31, 2006

Correction from Sunday night:

Overall winner from the golf outing was Scott Lee. (Middle name Adam?) :)

Food Report:

Morning - had gluten free cereal and rice milk, fruit, and shake
Lunch - 2 turkey sandwiches and fruit, water
Dinner - typical after chemo meal from Wendy's (Frescata sandwich, blueberry shake from DQ, chicken strips)

After the first chemo, I stopped at Wendy's for food. Since I did not get sick, this is a tradition. I will do the same after every chemo.

I had chemo again today. So far, just a little tired. I am going to do a meeting for FIG tomorrow, and I hope we will have 100 people there. I hope I am not too tired. Chemo went fine. The doctors and staff at Duke are so helpful. I would also like everyone to pray for something that I have not talked about. Basically the chemo is working as of now. Everyone knows that at some point, the cancer will learn to fight the chemo. Once that happens, it will be up to the Tarceva. I will take that alone. I want you to pray that the Tarceva works to manage this like a chronic disease. I feel that if I can hold on 5 years, they will have some pretty amazing stuff out there to keep it a manageable disease. Don't forget Mike D., Suzi, and others.... There are a lot of people that need prayers.

Sorry this is short, but I am tired.

Sunday, July 30, 2006

Here is the food report:

Morning - 3 poached eggs, shake
Lunch - turkey sandwich, rice chips
Dinner - 3 bowls of cereal, fresh fruit

Today was a good day, even though it was a disaster on the golf course. I told on Brian Williams so HE MADE SURE I put this on the blog:

Shawn "Quan" Lee beat me today in golf. We did not play in the same group, but he beat me. I will sum it up this way - I had 6 pars, a 11, 10, 2 quads, and so on.... UGLY.

We came home from the beach today. Addi was such a good baby on the way back. She did so well and only got fussy about 5 minutes from home. She "read" books, watch DVDs, etc. I have to say my wife is the greatest. She packed the car while I was playing golf. It was a great day.

To Brian Williams team - We won by triple digits!!!!!

I will be gone tomorrow getting chemo at Duke. If I do not write tomorrow, please understand that chemo and the pre-meds make me loopy!

See you soon!

Saturday, July 29, 2006

Still at the beach! Second round ok, still in 4th place. Scott Lee is catching Lee Bradley, and Shawn Lee is in third...

Went to dinner tonight with Lee, Scott, and Justin. Addi and Christi were with me of course. We went to a fun seafood deal, and Lee and Justin ate enough crab legs to make most people sick. My appetite is still good even though I do not talk about it any more. I thought people were getting bored of it, but several people have given me a hard time about it, so I will start letting people know again.

Morning: 4 poached eggs, shake, 16 oz of water
Lunch: baked red snapper, salad, squash and zucchini, water
Dinner: grilled salmon, salad, strawberries

All in all a good day, man am I tired from playing golf when it is 99 degrees outside!

Friday, July 28, 2006

Today was the first day of the outing. There are three rounds for team and individual. We played at Indigo Run or something like that. Everyone had a late night, and it was at least 95 degrees and 100% humidity. I played very well except for 4 holes. I shot a 95 and feel like I should have shot an 85. My group had Lee Bradley, Zach, and Eric. Lee shot a 73 and took the lead for the tournament. I am 16 stokes back, but in 4th. Shawn Lee did not come in last, as he took down Brian by 1 stroke. We do everything by handicap, so Shawn is 3rd and two strokes ahead of me. In the team competetion, my team is up 90 strokes after day one. My team is Lee, Justin, Shawn, me, and Scott Lee. Blowing them out. We gave them the option of starting over but they said no, they would try to come back.

After golf, everyone just basically recovered. Then we all went to Cheeseburgers in Paradise. After that, Addi, Christi, and I went back and everyone else played lazer tag.

Today's blog is dedicated to Eric Thomes for taking time away from his wife (she is awesome!) and three kids to come and see me.

Thursday, July 27, 2006

Today Addi, Christi, and I embarked to Myrtle Beach for Guy's Golf Weekend. It will be hard for me to update the blog, but I will try. The ride down started at 10:00 am, and Addi was just about ready for a nap. She did so well to be so young, and it took about 4.5 hours. We had lunch with Lee Bradley a little after Columbia, SC. We finished out the drive and arrived in Myrtle Beach. We got settled in and got a huge surprise. Eric Thomes came down to attend the first round. He has been here the last two years, and I thought he was not going to be able to change this year. It was a big surprise for sure. Basically, we got settled in, and it was to bed for the golf outing the next day.

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Before I start telling you about my day, I wanted to say thanks to everyone that has posted something to the blog. It has really made me feel good to read every comment.

Today is the last day of the week for me. I will be headed to the beach tomorrow for the annual guy's golf weekend. Although this year there is a twist: Addi and Christi are going with me. (I really doubt that no matter how long I live, there will not be too many times they will not accompany me somewhere!)

Work went well. I was supposed to be off, but there were two meetings I needed to attend. After that I got my head shaved again. My hair grows some places, and some places no way. The barber did it with a straight razor so my head really is smooth as a babies butt so to speak. Christi and I basically packed for the rest of the night except when Walker and Candace were over.

Amy Lee brought us diner tonight. We had spaghetti and turkey meat sauce, veggies, and rice milk. She did a good job, and I will have to dedicate the blog to her tonight!

Please do not forget to pray for Chip's mom, Suzi, Mike D., Chuck, and me. We all need them to keep coming.

I also want to send a shout out to the prayer warriors in Des Moines, IA. They have been great and have a great mommy. I think when children pray God hears them better. I know that many people have their kids praying for me. Dennis, Neal and Trey, and several others. Thanks.

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Today was the best day yet. I went to Duke today to do scans and see how I was doing overall. I was supposed to do chemo, but we will get into that a little later. I had a CT scan done at 7:15 am. Well, I had to be there at 7:15 am but the scan was done at 8:00 am. We went up the night before and I stayed with my buddy Brian. Christi, Bill, and Mom came up as well. We went to Squid's that night for dinner and it was good. Scott W. gave us that suggestions, and made mention of the hushpuppies. I could not eat them, although the consensus of the table was Big Daddy's hushpuppies were better. I will be taking Scott and Katie to Big Daddy's soon so they can see what they think.

Any way, I saw Dr. Crawford later that morning and he came in to discuss the scans. He checked me over first, and then went over the scans. I still have zero symptoms except for the cough, which has decreased a lot, about 75% less. He basically used this to let me know how it was going:

When he first saw me, my lungs looked like there was a snowstorm going on inside. Now he said it looked like flurries. Needless to say, that means that the treatment is working and the cancer is reducing. They did not give me a percentage per say, but it is for sure decreasing. I think this will make me double my efforts to keep doing the things I am doing. I am sure that the treatment Duke is giving me is responsible for a lot of the change, but I am also sure that prayers from everyone including me, eating right, taking the supplements I am taking, and exercising are a key as well. (Golf too, but do not tell Christi!)

Now, about the chemo - I could not do my regular chemo today because my mature white blood cell count is low. The baby white blood cell count is SUPER high, so there is not a problem. Basically three weeks would have been Thursday of this week, so I technically went in a little early. I am going to go back on Monday for chemo.

I was really happy today to see that all of OUR hard work is paying off. I said our hard work meaning you! If you are reading this for the first time or you have read it every day, the prayer from before and in the future really count. I appreciate all of the emails, cards, letters, crazy treatments, etc. that everyone sends me. The support has really helped my attitude as well.

A little update on Mike D - He had his appointment as well today. The doctors at Duke told him that he should stay at UNC for treatment, and that the treatment he would receive there would be great. I think this made Mike feel really good and confident in the doctors at UNC. I also feel really confident in my doctors at Duke, this shows they do the right thing. I met Mike's wife Angie as well and she was very sweet. We are going to keep in touch through this ordeal and be support for each other.

Again - Thanks to you, God, my doctors, my friends, my family, my wife, and Addi for all that you have done for me. Looks like I am going to be sticking around for awhile!

Monday, July 24, 2006

Monday was a great day. Jay and I went on a ride this morning. When I got back, Christi fixed me some eggs, and I also had a shake. Work was really good, and we have some big meetings coming up.

I went to the holistic doctor today. She worked on my body, concentrating on my back and neck. She did a really good job.

I left work early today to head to Duke. I am staying with my buddy Brian since we have to be there at 7:15 am. Tomorrow is a big day. It is when I do scans so the doctors can see my progress for the first time. Basically they can say 4 things:

1. Cancer is growing more BAD
2. Cancer is the same OK
3. Cancer has shrunk GOOD
4. Cancer is gone SUPER

Basically, I have a 75% chance to hear some good news. I most likely will not hear 1 or 4, somewhere in between. I might have trouble updating tomorrow night, but I will try my best....

See you soon....