Johnnie Abreu is the author of the book I Was Once Dead: A Miracle Life. His life began on November 13, 1972, in New York City at Roosevelt Hospital. Born prematurely, he spent 30 days in an incubator with the medical staff, dedicated care, helping him through those fragile early days.
Years later, he was diagnosed with Nephrotic Syndrome which is a renal disease. His childhood was filled with joy and innocence, as the firstborn in a growing family. Shortly after his birth, his paternal grandparents moved in, creating a bustling household.
As his family expanded with the births of his siblings, their home flourished with love despite occasional siblings’ squabbles. At age four, Johnnie faced nephrotic syndrome, a serious kidney disease. Through what he believes was divine intervention and the excellent care at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, he overcame this challenge.
Supported by his family and the community, particularly the Catholic Church of San Judas Tadeo, he maintained his formal education without repeating a grade or failing a subject, even during frequent hospital stays.
Johnnie’s parents were resilient pillars of strength. His mother worked various jobs, eventually becoming a home attendant, while his father held multiple roles, including presser, handyman, and driver.
Johnnie’s childhood was rich with adventures, from comic book heroes to bike rides, and the summers spent in the Dominican Republic with his loyal German shepherd.
In high school, Johnnie engaged deeply in learning sports and early romances.
Started university in 1990, his education spanned sixteen transformative years, shaping him into a social worker, educator, and community leader. During this period, he met his first wife, and their relationship blossomed into marriage in 1998.
Despite their love and unity, life’s challenges eventually led to their painful separation and divorce. In 2020, Johnnie faced a new health crisis with a persistent dry cough that led to a cardiomyopathy diagnosis.
His children, wife, aunt, parents and youngest brother provided unwavering support during this time, despite his mother being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Reflecting on his journey, Johnnie is filled with gratitude for the support from the people that stood by his side during this tumultuous period. Their unwavering presence guided him through his darkest times.
Committed to expressing his gratitude, he seeks to honor their sacrifices through both grand and small gestures, acknowledging the profound impact of their support on his life.
