Here are a few emails people have sent to us as well as to Michael Hall, the author of the piece in last month’s Texas Monthly.  I’ll post more later.

From: “Michael Hall”

Date: September 14, 2010 8:04:54 AM CDT

To: “Julie Romano”, “mike romano”

Subject: FW: Message from Gwen

hey guys–here’s another great email we just got–

________________________________

Sent: Mon 9/13/2010 3:05 PM

To: Michael Hall

Subject: Message from Gwen B

Dear Mr. Hall,

Your beautifully written article about Johnny Romano in this month’s issue has changed me forever.  I cannot even write this email to you without having tears roll down my face.

After reading (and re-reading) this story, I immediately decided to join the bone marrow registry.  I can only hope that someday I will have the chance to help someone who is suffering.  My heart goes out to this family, and everyone like them, who have to battle this horrible disease.

Gwen

From: “Chris”

Date: September 13, 2010 8:26:04 AM CDT

To: <Julie@JohnnyKicksCancer.org>

Subject: Johnny in Texas Monthly

Julie and Mike,

A couple weeks ago I picked up a copy of Texas Monthly while at the airport waiting to fly back to Houston from Dallas.  Sitting on the plane, I read through the Texas Quarterback cover, and then turned to the story of your little boy.  By the time I finished reading, I was heartbroken and wiping tears from my eyes (and I never cry).

I cannot begin to imagine what you have gone through, or how you have managed to stay so strong.  I am the father of 3 (2 boys and 1 baby girl, ages 5/3/1), and from that perspective I’m unable to comprehend the loss you must feel.

Then I found your blog, looked at all the pictures of Johnny, and in particular read Mike’s post titled “One Year Later…”.  I found myself crying again, sitting at my office at work.  I simply cannot imagine….

Although I have never met you, I know you must be very special people to have endured through all of this.  Johnny’s story has truly touched me, and made me reevaluate the priorities in my own life.

I don’t completely know why I felt so compelled to write you.  Perhaps just to let you know that almost 2 years later, Johnny’s courageous fight continues to impact people.  Perhaps because Johnny’s story shook me up so much, that I just wanted to reach out to you.

What a brave, amazing boy you shared with the world.  I know that our Father in Heaven has him wrapped in His arms.

I wish all of God’s grace and blessings on you and your family, and pray that you continue to find peace and happiness in your life.

Sincerely,

Chris