Friday, December 04, 2009

Just a short post, Bo is resting at home now surrounded by love.
I think for the first time I am at a loss for words.
We are not sure how much time we will have together in this next phase, selfishly I want another 3 1/2 years, but I do know better. I want no suffering, no pain. I want Bo to do this his way on his time. We will all ride this ride together, celebrate his life and journey.
I also want to thank everyone for his kind words. Not for just right now, but for me to share with Addi in the future. With your comments, letters mailed and pictures I hope to create a volume of books for her to have forever celebrating her Daddy. (I hope you get the hint, that if you have anything you would like to share about Bo, with Bo or pictures, I would love to have some) Everyone of you, people me have met and people we have not met, are special to us. We talked many times about this blog and how grateful we are to have it. Our toughest days were sustained many times because of words said on this website. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing our life with us and this journey.
Love to All
Christi, Bo and Addi
PS - I guess I did have enough to say after all - Always me

38 comments:

Kathy Boyd said...

Bo, Christi and Addi -- You are in my thoughts and prayers -- as you have been for years.

Bo- You are a true hero - in every sense of the word. Your courage and strength has been amazing. All have been blessed by your mere presence.

May God truly bless and keep each of you in His tender care.
With great affection,
Kathy Boyd

Anonymous said...

As Kathy just shared-Bo, you are truly a hero! We have all become better people because of you. I will always love you. Christi and Addi, you will always have all of our unlimited love and support.
MitchyB

Anonymous said...

Bo- You are a hero! You have inspired so many and have been a true blessing!

When my aunt was diagnosed with a very rare bile duct cancer this year, I told her about you and how you "beat the odds" with your lung cancer and your positive attitude through your tough journey. I told her she had to have that same attitude to win! Shes read your blog everyday since and went back and read the whole thing from the beginning of your long journey with lung cancer. You know what? She "beat the odds" too with her cancer. Her doctors didn't give her much hope and now she is cancer-free. You were a huge inspiration to her and others. You are loved by so many people.

Christi- you have been absolutely amazing through this whole journey. You're an angel and I pray for you, Addi, Bo, and the rest of the family. Enjoy the time you have left and cherish it!

God Bless you all!
Ashley

Unknown said...

Bo,Addi and Christi,
My heart hurts. I am sending prayers and postive thoughts your way. Bo, I haven't been on here in a long time. I keep thinkng of your wonderful smile. May God be with you all at this time. Know that you are surrounded by love by so very many.

Tracy Williams

Anonymous said...

I am a friend of Carolines and have followed your blog from day one. Bo's tenacity & courage has been an inspiration to me. His love for his family and willingness to keep fighting and his desire to find a cure for himself and others has truly been an inspiration beyond words. I thank you for your willingness to shre your battle and courage with the rest of us. May God give you all the strength you need.
God bless you all,
Corina

Anonymous said...

Bo,Christi and Addi,

I love you all so much and I'm thinking about you and praying for you all. Bo you are an inspiration to us all to live a better life and help others, even though you are a lunatic for driving 5 tween and teen girls to Blue Ridge mall in your Civic AND actually coming back for us. You had the patience of a saint even in HS. I hope one day I can change for the better half as many lives as you and Christi have.

Jenn in CA

Anonymous said...

Bo, you have inspired me to live a better life. To be a better person. I will never forget all the conversations that we have had and what an inspiration you are. You are a great man, and have done so much for so many. There will never be a day that I don't think of your life and your path that you have paved for so many. You will be in my prayers every minute of every day.

Darlene.Schaefer said...

I thank God I was fortunate to meet all of you. Thanks so much to Laurie Arant for telling me about your courageous story. I am honored to have spread the word on Addiscure through the paper. I admire your grace during this most difficult time. I've been checking up hour after hour wanting to know how you all are. I know there are many friends for Bo to see, but if I can do anything big or small for you, let me know.

Anonymous said...

Bo, it's amazing how many lives you have touched already and I know that you will forever continue to touch the hearts and lives of others, including mine! You are an inspiration and a the true meaning of a hero!
Christi & Bo, I know it must be very difficult at times to share your lives with others. I thank you both for your strength and courage in allowing us to be a part of it! I will keep you, Addi and the family in my prayers.

Anita R.

Unknown said...

Thank you for keeping us posted. Christi, you are truly amazing. I admire your strength.

Bo-you have been such an inspiration to me. Because of you, you have made me a better person. I have dealt with things in my past that I never dealt with before until I met you. Your determination and enthusiam has been so powerful to me. I just think that you are such an amazing person! I thought about you today when this time last year we had the Cookie Exchange at the office. Boy, you can ALWAYS make me laugh! You and Alecia were practically crying you were laughing so hard at the joke you made. I continue to think about and pray for you Bo, Christi and Addi and all of your family.

All My Love,
Jamie Ermann

J. Dearing said...

Joy is what fills the heart of the
which hold within the mysteries of a friend
A passion unknown unto words
Within them fall the tears of all things they endure as one
And from their eyes diamonds fall,
So precious every one
Dear within, the memories they caress with sorrow
And gather them today, for what may come of tomorrow
Priceless
Priceless ever are these moments that we spend with those so dear
Comforting now to know that they are near
Yet there comes a day when they see the eagle soar
And feel within their hearts
A passion so much more
As we stand beside them when that gleam glows in their eyes
What comes of tomorrow
My friend's lost paradise
And though a distant barrier wells up within the heart
There is a joy inside
To know the joy of a dawning start
Standing there beside them on that road to paradise
We say farewell and weep
Knowing they must also compromise
And so we hold them close and whisper in their ear
Please take with you these memories.
Then from the eyes,
Your tear.

God will be with you always and you will always be with me
As you hold a special place in my heart. Brothers in Christ we shall forever
remain.

J. Dearing

Anonymous said...

I have been reading this blog thru Bo's journey, and although we have only met Bo a few times we know what a good person he is and how special he is to his family. All I can say is that this is heart breaking and we will pray for your family. I was watching say yes to the dress this morning and it made me think of Bo and Addie. There was a young woman trying on her soon to be wedding dress, her father who had passed away when she was young had written notes to be given to her on special days and milestones in her life and one was when she found her wedding dress. What an amazing thing to do for your child. Addie is truly blessed with a great parents and although nobody has said it, knowing you all personally or not, our hearts ache for Addie. We will continue to pray for your wonderful family!

Anonymous said...

This is Aunt Marlene from Kansas. I want you to all know you are in my thoughts and prayers every moment of the day.
Bo you are truly an inspiration to all of us. Christi you have very unselfishly kept us all informed during this journey, which I know has been very difficult, and Addi you are the love of their lives, as it should be.
Know we well always be here for you and I love you all very dearly.

Eric Cole said...

Bo,
There are very few individuals in this world who have had the positive impact on as many people as you have. Its truly amazing.
I have only known you through a few rounds of golf with Duncan and Walker but I think about you a lot. Your fight has inspired me to be a better man for my wife and future family.
My wife and I attended the very first Addis Cure event in Lake Norman 3 years ago. To this very second I have NEVER ONCE removed the white bracelet from my wrist, NOT ONE TIME.
Warmest regards to you Bo and the amazing family you have blessed. We are all better people because of you.
Eric Cole

Anonymous said...

I, too, have read your blog from day one, and have been lifted time and time again by your courage and grace. You have been and will continue to be in my prayers.

Anonymous said...

Bo -

You have inspired so many - as is evident by the posts on this site.

It is difficult to let you go. Your family and loved ones cherish who you are, respect the impact you have had on your community, and will continue to immulate your 'Dream Big' perspective in business.

I continue to pray for you and your family. May the peace of Christ provide comfort and hope eternal.

- donna m.

Anonymous said...

My first day at FIG you didn't know my name so in your gravelly voice, you simply said, "hey buddy" because to you, everyone was a friend. Your infectious personality and care for me as a friend made work fun; to have you as my boss didn't make it seem like work. You're a leader, a fighter, a friend, and a hero. My life has been forever changed because of the time that I've been blessed with to call you, Christi and Addi my friends. Thank you for being a part of my life and allowing me to be a part of yours. I love you guys.

Lauren

Catie Rubenstein said...

My heart is heavy with caring. I would not trade that for the world, though- it's a gift to us all that we love someone enough that it hurts.

Christi, to share a little more on what I mentioned yesterday... I met Bo at the sundial outside our high school (anyone from HHS can tell you about the sundial, our central meeting place-) - I was new in school, and really shy, and was sitting by myself pretending to read, watching everyone else laugh and talk. Bo walked by, looked at me, and said point blank, "you're not really reading that book, are you?" I said I was. (I really wasn't.) Sure enough, he says, "You're faking! Why are you doing that? Why don't you come over and talk?" and I was mortified because I didn't know a soul and didn't really know how to fit in in a new place-- and i didn't answer, and he didn't say anything-- next thing you know, he literally put his arm around my shoulders, steered me into the larger group of people and started introducing me around as his new friend, and I swear, people talked to me only because he did, first. That's the kind of kindness that is absolutely critical to an awkward 15 year old... and he didn't let up with that, but insisted I go to parties, etc., and just kept acting as though I'd been there forever, until it sort of "took".

Another funny thing I remember is he used to call my house to check in on me some nights... I'd hear the phone ring and my mom would answer, then 30 minutes, sometimes 45 would go by, and all of a sudden she'd say the call was for me. I'd always think, "WHO has been talking to my mom that long?!!?" --- Bo. Of course it was Bo... just chatting away about anything and everything, friendly as you please, making sure my mom was adjusting to the new town, as well! She called him "The ambassador to hendersonville", and she still talks about his friendliness and incredible smile!

So much love sent again today, from me AND my mom, who love you, Bo Johnson. Keep fighting. Please, please keep fighting. We need people like you on this planet. People who light up a whole football stadium with a smile.

Addi, your father is really someone special. He touches the hearts of whomever he meets. With your two incredible parents, I know you're going to be the same way.

Anonymous said...

I love you so much Bo.

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Granny Carolyn said...

I cannot say I was shocked, but still have had a heavy heart from the last time I saw you Christi & Addi. Bo you have been a real warrior and hero through all of this.
What an inspiration to all who have ever met you and your family. Your struggle and strength guided more people than you know. My heartfelt prayers have been with your whole family each day since the battle started. It will not end. Christi and Addi my love and prayers will always be with you and your family throughout this journey which is harder now. Christi your strength and love is inspiring & courageous as always. I admire you all. Bo as well as the whole family will forever be in my heart, my thoughts and with loving prayers always.

Luv & Prayers to All,
Granny Carolyn

Anonymous said...

There are some people placed on this Earth that are sent to touch the lives of everyone they meet. Bo, I honestly believe, is one of those people. You meet them once and they forever remain in your memories and your heart.
Christi and Addi, I have never met you, but I met Bo during summer school at App. I distinctly remember he had broken his ankle and had a cast on. Although he was new on campus, you would have NEVER known it! He was like the one man with one good leg welcoming committee! We chatted a little bit and it felt like talking to an old friend. The next morning as I'm dragging myself to class (I wasn't a morning person then) I hear: How dare you walk past me without speaking? The nerve of you! And who is it?? None other than Bo! As I'm trying to apologize saying that I didn't recognize him he calmly stated: and how many other people are walking around with a cast on? At the end of his scolding I got a hug and ended up being late for class!

I hope that you all cherish every day, hour, minute, and second to make lasting memories. And most importantly to Never Give Up.

Anonymous said...

Bo so many memories... from our pizza date in 5th grade to birthday parties at my house to skating parties all of which hold a special place in my heart. From the moment I met you I knew this boy is something special. I was right. You have left a mark on the heart of everyone you have ever met. Christi and Addi you really hit the jackpot with this one. There are very few out there that people can say that about, but he is definitely on my list. As my mom said last night he has always been one of the good ones. Bo my mom sends hugs to you along with prayers for you and your family. Bo you are an incredible fighter and I am so proud of you for the boy I grew up with and for the wonderful man husband and father you have become. I would love to be there to hug you and tell you all of this in person, but please know that I truly love you with all my heart and will continue to pray for strength and peace for you and your family.

All My Love
Heather Orr Durall

Anonymous said...

What can I say that everyone else hasn't already said, so I guess I will say it again, you guys are truly and inspiration to everyone and we love you. Even through your trials and triumphs you still find the time and kindness to keep us all updated and a part of the "home front" so we can all try to help in any way that we can, small or big. I know that we do not talk every day and even through all the miles (and now ocean) that can separate us you are still a big sister that I can look up to and find strength in. To top it off, you have given me a wonderful brother in Bo. We love you and we are always with you no matter where our adventures take us. My heart breaks a little because we are now so far, but it just shows how far our love can go and beyond.
Your little sister, Crystal

Anonymous said...

What can I say that everyone else hasn't already said, so I guess I will say it again, you guys are truly and inspiration to everyone and we love you. Even through your trials and triumphs you still find the time and kindness to keep us all updated and a part of the "home front" so we can all try to help in any way that we can, small or big. I know that we do not talk every day and even through all the miles (and now ocean) that can separate us you are still a big sister that I can look up to and find strength in. To top it off, you have given me a wonderful brother in Bo. We love you and we are always with you no matter where our adventures take us. My heart breaks a little because we are now so far, but it just shows how far our love can go and beyond.
Your little sister, Crystal

Anonymous said...

What can I say that everyone else hasn't already said, so I guess I will say it again, you guys are truly and inspiration to everyone and we love you. Even through your trials and triumphs you still find the time and kindness to keep us all updated and a part of the "home front" so we can all try to help in any way that we can, small or big. I know that we do not talk every day and even through all the miles (and now ocean) that can separate us you are still a big sister that I can look up to and find strength in. To top it off, you have given me a wonderful brother in Bo. We love you and we are always with you no matter where our adventures take us. My heart breaks a little because we are now so far, but it just shows how far our love can go and beyond.
Your little sister, Crystal

Anonymous said...

Bo Johnson, I sit here in tears trying to find the words to say. You are truly an inspiration, but more than anything a hero to many many people and I hope you know that. You have changed so many lives for the better, including mine, and I will forever be thankful that God put you and your sweet family in my life. I thank, praise, and love you for being the special person you are.

Your friend forever,

Elizabeth Munday

Anonymous said...

Bo -
It has been quite some time since we have spoken, but Allison and I think and pray for you and your family often. The courage you have shown is amazing, and something all of us could hope to strive to if ever faced with a challenge even close to what you have endured. Please know that you and your family remain in our thoughts and prayers.

Chad & Allison Melton

Anonymous said...

You are and always will be an inspiration to us all. Your courage and strength is amazing.

You will remain in my thoughts and prayers.

Paula Padgett
(Lena's Friend)

Anonymous said...

Hi guy ...

Your life has given meaning to so many days - your courage, the love of Christi and Addi - what an amazing gift you have given us as you have shared your journey. Thank you for allowing us all to be part of your life... and the wonder of it all. Lot of love to each of you.

Joni

Anonymous said...

Please know that God is with you, that is the heart of the Christian Gospel. My contiued prayers for now and always. Paula Albertson

Mary T. said...

Bo, Christi, and Addi,
There doesn't seem to be a word that defines the love and respect I have for all of you. You have allowed us to share your personal journey through a difficult time in your lives. You have taken time to keep us updated on the highs and lows even when you were so busy. My arms reach out to you and give you a huge hug filled with so much love and good thoughts. Please know we are with you in our hearts even though we are not with you in person. If you need anything, please know we are here.
Love,
Aunt Mary and Uncle Jeff

Anonymous said...

Dear Johnsons,
As always, we are thinking and praying for you. We have been talking about how you have been an amazing family and how well you have held up through all of this. We wish that we could say the perfect words that would send you peace, but we don't know what they are. I had a friend that once asked his father a what to tell someone in a situation like this, and he said, "Tell them that you love them." So, we love you and wish we could be there to hold and help. Continue to celebrate and embrace the journey.
Take care and sending tons of love,
The Glidewells

Anonymous said...

Bo, we met at my first FIG meeting approximately 13 years ago when you stood up to conduct the meeting and made the statement that you were usually the youngest person in the room. You asked my daughter Lauren to stand to prove that you were not the youngest one in the room that day. She was 10 at the time and you made her feel very special as you have made so many people feel special throughout the years.

We moved to Lake Norman 5 years ago and while moving in we discovered Bo and Christi Johnson are our next door neighbors! We have enjoyed our time on the lake watching you and your family boating, Addi losing her Barbie fishing pole in the water and having a “melt down”. We watched you console your daughter to let her know she could have a new pole….but she wanted “that one”. We offered a small fishing pole and Christi looked over to say she needed to make a late night run to Target for a new one!

Michelle spending time at your home watching that dreaded Carolina vs. Kansas game….the strain in the room because neither you nor Christi wanted to cheer too loud for your team….all along trying to respect each other’s feelings! Times when we would ask Addi what team she was cheering for and one time would be Go TAR HEELS and the next time GO JAYHAWKS!

Somehow along the way we came full circle…Lauren did some babysitting for Addi when you were hospitalized at Duke and was thrilled that you and Christi attended her wedding in June!

We have closely watched your journey and have marveled at your strength and perseverance, we’re inspired by Christi’s grace and courage and enjoy Addi’s smile and watching her grow and explore.

Thank you for sharing so much of yourself with others. You and your family have touched so many lives…thanks for being a special part of ours.

Our heartfelt prayers are with you all. With much love, The Beasley’s

Anonymous said...

Bo, Christi, and Addi,
Over the past 3 years I feel like I have gotten to know you all so well through babysitting Addi. I love the three of you so much, and I am so grateful to have met you.
Christi you are one of the strongest and most amazing women I have ever met. Addi is incredibly lucky to have you as a mother, and Bo as a wife. And Bo, you are also so, so strong. I have watched you fight this for as long as I've known you and you're probably the strongest, nicest, and most caring person I've ever had the pleasure of knowing. Addi has two amazing parents that love her more than anything, and she is so lucky for that. I remember one night, after an Addi's Cure fundraiser, when I sat and talked with Bo about how he would do anything to protect that little girl, and about how if anyone ever hurt her he would hurt them(I'm pretty sure his words were stronger than that though, haha). And another time when he told me about how he hated how much Addi understood about his sickness, and how he wished he could protect her from it. Thank you Bo for sharing these, and several other conversations with me over the past few years. You're an amazing father and an incredible person, and l know you love Addi more than anyone on this planet.
I've definitely cried and prayed a lot the past few days thinking about you all, and trying to find the right thing to write on here. I love all of you so so much, and if you need anything at all please don't hesitate to call. I hope I can help you in any way possible.
Bo, Addi will forever hear about how amazing of a person her father is and how much he loves her. I hope you know how much everyone loves you all and how incredible of a family you are. I'm incredibly grateful that you have been a part of my life, for you have shown me true strength.
With love,
Mackenzie D.

Wardzrfi said...

Bo,Christi and Addi, I love you all so much and I'm thinking about you and praying for you all. Bo you are an inspiration to us all to live a better life and help others, even though you are a lunatic for driving 5 tween and teen girls to Blue Ridge mall in your Civic AND actually coming back for us. You had the patience of a saint even in HS. I hope one day I can change for the better half as many lives as you and Christi have. Jenn in CA

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