Johnny and his brother are albinos (genetic condition called albinism).
Albinism affects the body's metabolism and aging processes in various ways.
Johnny is 65 years 'young', but metabolically he is at least 15 years older than that. He is a walking miracle in the light of all he has been through.
This has affected Johnny's vision tremendously and he is legally blind...very, very legally blind. His vision had deteriorated long ago but he did not make an issue of it and it only became recognisable later on when his mobility was affected. 80% of all our decisions are made via our visual processes, so Johnny is a true bluesman in more ways than one.
In consideration of this and the tremendous physical obstacles he has had to unobtrusively overcome, he deserves even more kudos, praise and credit for his wonderful singing and guitar playing along with the likes of the late Jeff Healey, who no doubt was inspired by Johnny. God bless them and may Johnny continue to play tremendously for many years to come. He has given us so much musical pleasure and inspiration.
It is also a very exciting time for retinal - vision cures coming in the form of genetic therapy, stem cell therapy and a host of other protocols, and soon they will be able to do something for Johnny - but you know him, he is a blues trooper and will just continue on valiantly regardless.
PS. It certainly would be nice if Eric Claption would personally invite him on stage to jam with him.
Keep up the great playing Johnny and please ... stay healthy![/FONT]
