Finding Strength in Shared Stories: Johnn(y)ie's Memoir of Mental Health and Redemption
What happens when a Marine from the hills of Kentucky and a star football player from the streets of Florida discover they're fighting the same battle? "johnn(y)ie" tells this unlikely story of friendship and healing through mental health struggles.
Johnny Dawson carried the weight of war home from Iraq, where losing brothers in combat and witnessing trauma left him battling severe PTSD. Meanwhile, Johnnie Dixon was living his dream playing football at Ohio State until devastating injuries sent him spiraling into depression, threatening everything he'd worked for.
Their paths seemed worlds apart until they discovered what united them - the giant of mental health that loomed over both their lives. Through raw honesty, they share their darkest moments: Johnny sitting on his bed with a gun while his dog Rocky desperately tried to save him; Johnnie waking up screaming "F—k!" every morning as his dreams slipped away.
But this isn't just about struggle - it's about redemption. Through faith, family, and the courage to be vulnerable, both men found their way back to hope. Johnny rebuilt his life with his wife Borah and their four sons, while building a successful financial practice. Johnnie persevered through his injuries to play professional football while building a beautiful life with his wife Viv and their children.
What makes their story unique is how they use their experiences to help others battle their own "Goliaths." They break down the stigma around mental health, especially for men who feel they must always project strength. Their friendship itself - crossing racial, cultural and experiential divides - shows how sharing our struggles can build unexpected bridges.
"johnn(y)ie" reminds us that no one fights alone. Through their interwoven stories of trauma, faith, and healing, they light the way for others facing similar battles. As they say: "You are not alone."
This is a story about more than two men who happen to share a name - it's about the power of vulnerability, the strength found in unity, and the hope that comes from knowing someone else understands your fight.
