His friends and family have come together to launch the “anyone with a he❤️rt…” campaign to raise awareness of his urgent condition and to encourage people facing difficult decisions to consider a Directed Heart Donation that could save Johnny’s life. At 58, Johnny Boatman has dedicated over 25 years of his life to serving this country, earning the Bronze Star Medal and retiring as a Lt. Colonel
from the Illinois National Guard. As the creator of Operations First Choice, a Chicago-based program helping youth aged 7-17, and currently serving in a leadership role at the Department of Defense, Johnny's impact on his community and country is immense. Despite his active and healthy lifestyle as a former Division I football player for the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss!), Johnny has been diagnosed with hereditary ATTR (hATTR) amyloidosis, a rare condition affecting only an estimated 50,000 people worldwide. This progressive disease has led to congestive heart failure, and now Johnny’s only chance at survival is a heart transplant. He remains hospitalized, waiting on the transplant list for his miracle. Directed Heart Donation is rare but can be life-saving. The "anyone with a heart..." campaign aims to raise awareness, not just for Johnny but for others in need of directed organ donations. The Boatman family, who have quietly faced Johnny's illness for the past year, are now asking for help in spreading the word about his urgent need for a heart transplant.
“We are waiting for a miracle,” says the family. “Johnny has always had a big, loving heart. Now, he needs a new one to continue being the amazing husband, father, and leader he is. We ask everyone to share his story and raise awareness for Directed Heart Donation. Anyone with a heart can make a difference.”
❤️How You Can Help❤️
- Share Johnny’s story on social media and encourage others to do the same.
- Raise awareness about Directed Heart Donations, which can save lives.
- Help Johnny and others like him by spreading the message of hope and support.
