A shattered helmet, a rebuilt face, and a diagnosis that changed everything...Kevin Johnson’s story grabs you by the hand and walks you from crisis to clarity. We sit down with the longtime educator turned advocate to unpack the hard-won lessons he learned after a near-fatal cycling crash that led to the discovery of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and, later, a rare eye involvement that many clinicians missed. What follows is a candid look at how gratitude, purpose, and community can transform the cancer experience for patients and caregivers alike.

Kevin explains how he initially kept quiet during his cancer journey and how a meetup with a friend gave way to a new mission: co-leading Man Up to Cancer in Virginia and supporting chapters across the South. We talk about the practical tools that support men during their cancer journey: chemo backpacks, local and virtual support groups, and an annual retreat that blends education with adventure. Along the way, Kevin names the uncomfortable truth: men often wait too long to seek support. Simple invitations from spouses, friends, clinicians, and even fire departments have become the lifeline that brings them into a network where honesty and humor coexist with treatment plans and scan days.

We also highlight how peer connection improves adherence, symptom reporting, and overall quality of life. This is a powerful reminder that outcomes improve when men speak up, and that no one has to walk this path alone.

If this conversation resonates, share it with someone who needs strength today! 

Resources:

https://manuptocancer.org/ 

https://imermanangels.org/ 

https://www.reelrecovery.org/

Thank you for listening! If you're interested in hearing more from Virginia Oncology Associates, make sure to subscribe to Cancer Care Connections on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere podcasts are available, or listen online at cancercareconnections.buzzsprout.com.

Cancer Care Connections is the official podcast of Virginia Oncology Associates. For more information, visit us at VirginiaCancer.com. or find us on Facebook or Instagram at Virginia Oncology Associates.