Bo Johnson
Bo Johnson was an avid golfer.
For the past 10 years, Bo Johnson’s fun-loving spirit has lived on at the golf course and as his friends gather, especially on one Sunday in April.
Johnson was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in September 2005 and passed away just three months later at age 45. Johnson started playing golf in his mid-20s and got hooked, so a golf tournament in his memory seemed a perfect fit to his family and friends.
On his birthday of that first year, May 9, 2006, his friends and family pulled together what would become the First Annual Bo Johnson Memorial Golf Tournament.
This year will be the event’s 10th, and also its final, year. The annual Bo Johnson Memorial Golf Tournament Celebration Party will be held Sunday, April 12, from 5-9 p.m. at the Birmingham Children’s Zoo.
It will feature dinner, a silent auction and children’s activities. Golfers and non-golfers alike are welcome to attend.
Since 2006, the events have raised more than $500,000 for cancer research. Currently, the Bo Johnson Charitable Foundation is funding one of five research pilot projects in conjunction with UAB’s $5.5-million Gastrointestinal Oncology Initiative that benefits the UAB Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Johnson’s friends and family also hope to raise awareness of esophageal cancer and encourage people to see a doctor about subtle symptoms such as heartburn and sore throats. Johnson complained about a sore throat for at least six weeks before he saw a doctor. Early esophageal cancer may not cause symptoms, but symptoms include pain when swallowing, chest or back pain, weight loss, heartburn, chronic cough or hoarse voice.
The scramble format golf tournament will be held Monday, April 13, at Highlands Golf Course with a 1 p.m. shotgun start. The entry fee includes lunch.
The zoo party costs $45 per person in advance or $50 at the door, and children younger than age 10 are admitted free.
For more information about the events, visit facebook.com/thebojohnsoncharitablefoundation or call 335-7100.
