Photo credit: www.cbsnews.com
Turning Grief Into Giving: A Family’s Journey After Loss
Near Atlanta — Cheryl Johnson and her husband, Ernie, known for his work as a TNT sportscaster, reflect on their life shaped significantly by a pivotal choice made in 1991. Their decision to adopt Michael, a young boy from a Romanian orphanage, not only transformed their lives but also brought into their world a profound challenge.
Upon arriving in the United States, Michael was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a severe and incurable condition. Alongside this diagnosis, he developed an unusual but vibrant affection for car keys and key fobs.
“He would carry them with him and would be excited to have different ones each day,” Cheryl reminisced. “Even as he became sicker and required a ventilator, he would share his imagination with us, saying that Jesus drove a red Silverado.”
Michael passed away in October 2021 at the age of 33, leaving behind cherished memories, photographs, and his beloved collection of key fobs that his parents continue to treasure.
“I know it’s not him, but he held them, he loved them,” Cheryl reflected, while Ernie added, “I have to have that memory.” These memories, however, experienced a poignant shift last month, coinciding with the third anniversary of Michael’s passing, when Cheryl encountered a Facebook post from another local mother. This post was a heartfelt request for car keys and key fobs for her son, who also shared a love for collecting.
Brittany and John Kivett’s 6-year-old son, Cooper, has Williams syndrome, a developmental disorder that makes his key fob collection uniquely special to him. “They hold sentimental value,” John shared. “Because that’s something you can’t just go to the store and buy,” Brittany added, alluding to the significance of such special items.
Initially seeking just a few fobs for Cooper’s birthday, Brittany was surprised by the overwhelming generosity that followed. The Johnsons’ extensive collection suddenly felt like it was destined for a different purpose. “I know this is Michael wanting Cooper to have them,” Cheryl said, conveying a sense of connection between the two boys and recognizing the transformative power of giving in the face of grief.
Different families navigate loss in different ways, but for the Johnsons, the act of giving to others became an essential part of their healing process.
More from CBS News
Steve Hartman is a CBS News correspondent known for his compelling storytelling, highlighting extraordinary individuals through his acclaimed weekly segment “On the Road.”
Source
www.cbsnews.com