[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 185 (Thursday, December 10, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2929]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO DR. JAMES JOHNSON

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. MARY FALLIN

                              of oklahoma

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 9, 2009

  Ms. FALLIN. Madam Speaker, I am saddened to rise today to note the 
passing of Dr. James Johnson, an adoring husband, cherished father, and 
respected physician in my home state of Oklahoma.
  A lifelong hemophiliac, Dr. J, as he was known to so many of his 
patients, dedicated his life to healing others. During his more than 25 
years practicing medicine, Dr. J treated thousands of patients, and 
worked with researchers and insurance companies on finding new ways to 
treat and hopefully one day cure hemophilia.
  Dr. J was particularly fond of reminding students to continually 
challenge their minds--because while their bodies may someday fail 
them, they could always count on their knowledge. No one lived this out 
better than he did. During his months in the hospital, I am told, he 
would consult on his own case and instruct med students performing 
basic procedures on him. Always gracious and ever the educator, Dr. J 
would kindly suggest, ``You know, son, if you do it this way, you won't 
hurt your patient so much.''
  Dr. J owned his own practice for many years, and was most recently 
medical director for a company that performs house calls for the 
elderly and homebound. Over the years, he worked as an ER doctor, a 
prison doctor, and a primary care doctor. When off the job, Dr. J was 
also a die-hard Sooners fan, a Thunder season-ticket holder, an amateur 
pilot, and an active member of his local church. But the roles he 
cherished most were those of husband and father.
  Dr. J was laid to rest Monday in Edmond. While we take comfort in 
knowing that he is at peace, the State of Oklahoma and particularly who 
know Dr. J grieve this loss. I believe I speak for the whole House when 
I say our thoughts and prayers go out to Dr. J's wife of 26 years, 
Becky, their daughter, Ashley, and the hundreds of family, friends, 
colleagues, and patients who knew and love him so dearly.

                          ____________________