Introduction to a Comeback Story

Welcome to Madison Square Wellness Center, a converted New Jersey garage that serves as more than just a home gym for New York Knicks fan and high school basketball star Johnny Jackson. It’s a sanctuary where Jackson continues to author one of basketball’s great comeback stories.

The Diagnosis and the Determination

The diagnosis of Stage 4B Hodgkin’s lymphoma in August 2024 put Jackson’s senior season with the Ridgewood High School varsity basketball team in jeopardy. However, Jackson was determined to play in the season-opening game for Ridgewood on Dec. 19, just three days after he received a chemotherapy treatment. He put on his No. 4 jersey, slipping it over the port in his chest for treatment, and went on to score 30 points while leading Ridgewood to victory.

The Miracle Season

Jackson played in every game that season, enduring a total of 12 chemo sessions, and set the school’s all-time scoring record. He guided his team to a third section championship in four years. "The fact that he’s doing what he’s doing as awful as he feels," said his mom Lynsey, "I say it all time, it’s a miracle."

A Surprise Invitation from Jalen Brunson

It was a miracle that captured the attention of "George to the Rescue" and the Garden of Dreams Foundation, who gave Jackson an unforgettable experience at Madison Square Garden in March. He received a direct invite from the team’s star point guard, and Jackson’s favorite player, Jalen Brunson. "I know you’ve been going through treatment but also still killing it out there," Brunson said in a video message. "You’ve got a lot of respect from us, and we’re all inspired by your story. Just wanted to invite you to a game here at the Garden. I can’t wait to see you. Go Knicks."

Meeting the Team and a Special Gift

Brunson met with Jackson and his family before the game. "It was super cool to meet Brunson," Jackson said. "For him to be the one inviting me up to the game and then getting to meet him there, just being able to talk to a role model of mine meant everything for me." Jackson was introduced to nearly every player on the team and sat courtside for the game with his parents and sister. After the game, Knicks All Star Karl-Anthony Towns gave Jackson his game-worn sneakers.

The Transformation of Madison Square Wellness Center

The garage, now known as Madison Square Wellness Center, was transformed by "George to the Rescue" into a space that includes workout equipment, a massage chair, and other spa-like amenities. "The new space literally looks like a room from the Four Seasons hotel," said Jackson’s father Joe. The transformation replaced the garage door with a wall of windows, installed a slotted roof for a spa-like ambiance, and added amenities dedicated toward the Jackson family’s health overall.

The Kindest Thing Anyone Has Ever Done

"The thing about cancer is it’s not just the person who has it that is fighting it, it’s the entire family is fighting cancer," said George Oliphant, host of NBC’s "George to the Rescue." The wellness studio is not just for Johnny to get strong again, it’s for the whole Jackson family to get strong again. Jackson said, "Obviously, I went through such a rough patch in my life, but that kind of opens up the doors for people to just do really kind things. This especially is probably the kindest thing anyone has ever done."

Conclusion

Johnny Jackson’s story is one of determination, resilience, and the power of community. With the support of his family, team, and even his favorite basketball players, Jackson was able to overcome the challenges of cancer and achieve his goals on and off the court. His story serves as an inspiration to many, showing that with hard work and the right support, anything is possible.

FAQs

• Q: What was Johnny Jackson’s diagnosis in 2024?
  • A: Stage 4B Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
• Q: Who invited Johnny Jackson to a game at Madison Square Garden?
  • A: Jalen Brunson, the New York Knicks’ star point guard.
• Q: What did Karl-Anthony Towns give to Johnny Jackson after the game?
  • A: His game-worn sneakers.
• Q: Who transformed the Jackson’s garage into a wellness center?
  • A: "George to the Rescue" and the Garden of Dreams Foundation.
• Q: What is the name of the transformed garage?
  • A: Madison Square Wellness Center.