By Eric Johnson, Vice Chair of Gilda’s Club Wisconsin Board of Directors
I have always truly believed that God has a path for each and every one of us. Sometimes, when we are walking through the darkest valleys of that path, we have no idea why we are there. The hardships can feel meaningless in the moment. But if we keep the faith and keep moving forward, the reason eventually reveals itself.
My life has been shaped by two distinct chapters where a painful path ultimately led to a powerful purpose. The first happened in my early 20s. My wife and I trusted a financial advisor who ultimately bankrupted us to the tune of $1.9 million. It was a devastating blow, but it sparked my first big “why.” It drove me to become a financial advisor myself, ensuring others would be protected, and eventually led to me becoming a partner at our firm, Financial Integrators.
The second chapter—the one that brings me to you today—is about a different kind of fight. It’s about cancer.
A Lifelong Battle Close to Home
Like so many of you, cancer has touched my life in profound ways. We have all been affected by this disease in some capacity, but over the years, it felt like cancer kept knocking on my door:
- In my youth: I tragically lost three childhood friends to cancer.
- Later in life: A close friend of mine faced every parent’s worst nightmare when their son passed away from DIPG (a rare, aggressive brain tumor).
- In October 2018: My own mother was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer and given just six months to live.
When it came to my mom, I prayed fiercely. Thank God, her path turned out differently than the doctors predicted. Today, she defies the odds and is currently cancer-free.
But the battle isn’t over. Right now, I am actively praying for eight close friends who are currently dealing with cancer. The weight of this disease is heavy, and it is everywhere.
The LinkedIn Post That Changed Everything
One afternoon, I was scrolling through my LinkedIn feed and noticed a shared post. Gilda’s Club Wisconsin was looking for new board members.
Instantly, it hit me right in the heart. Looking back at the friends I’ve lost, the miracle of my mother’s survival, and the eight friends fighting for their lives right now, I knew this wasn’t a coincidence. It was a sign. This was where my path was supposed to lead next. I applied for the position immediately.
“I truly believe we are put on this earth to make other people’s lives better.”
I was fortunate enough to be selected for the board, and I do not take that responsibility lightly.
Why Gilda’s Club?
My financial background taught me how to help people rebuild their lives after a disaster. My personal history with cancer taught me how vital emotional, social, and community support is when your world gets turned upside down.
That is exactly what we strive to do at Gilda’s Club Wisconsin. We are here to uplift, to support, and to ensure that no one faces cancer alone. I am honored to serve on this board, to use my journey to bless others, and to walk alongside each of you on this path.
Beautiful story Eric. Keep praying & serving.