About Us

Meet Vaughn

Vaughn Armand Johnson was born July 11, 2008. He was a brilliant, headstrong, and kindhearted kid who loved gaming, spending time with his friends, and most of all, being with his family. His 3 little brothers meant the world to him. He had a smile that could light up a room, and he was deeply loved by friends and family.

On 10/25/22, Vaughn was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). He endured 3 rounds of chemo, 3 PICU stays, roughly 8 procedures, and a bone marrow transplant. During the 5 months after his diagnosis, Vaughn spent only a total of 3 weeks at home. The rest of his time was living in the hospital. During this time, he still showed great concern for others and faced this unbelievable time with a bravery we will never forget.

On 3/13/23, we were told Vaughn’s biopsy showed no cancer, however the same night, Vaughn started havingcomplications from the chemotherapy that put him back in the hospital while doctors tried to figure out theproblem. Vaughn‘s liver failed and he passed away thenight of March 16, 2023 surrounded by many loving family members.


The Vaughn Johnson Legacy Foundation was established to honor the life and legacy of Vaughn, this young warrior who courageously battled AML. He fought with extraordinary strength and resilience until his final breath and we carry his strength and his fight forward.

The Vaughn Johnson Legacy Foundation is dedicated to:
–Providing financial and emotional support to young AML patients and their families
-Raising awareness about AML through advocacy and community outreach
-Building partnerships with research institutions and healthcare organizations
-Creating scholarship opportunities for AML survivors who aspire to become oncology doctors or nurses


Our Mission



To support those fighting the battle of Acute Myeloid Leukemia or survivors of AML. The Vaughn Johnson Legacy Foundation commits to providing resources, advocating for awareness and understanding, and supporting young AML warriors and their families. We will also fund research efforts aimed at finding a cure or more proficient treatments.

Founder’s Story

me and v

My name is Terra Wright, and I am the founder of the Vaughn Johnson Legacy Foundation. This foundation was born from the most heartbreaking chapter of my life — losing my firstborn son, Vaughn, to Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).

Walking beside him through his battle with childhood cancer left me feeling helpless in ways I never imagined. No parent should ever have to watch their child endure what he went through, and no family should feel alone in that fight. While I could not change the outcome for my son, I knew I had to turn my grief into purpose.

This foundation is my way of honoring his memory and carrying forward his light. It exists to support children and families who are facing childhood leukemia, to raise awareness of its impact, and to build a community of strength and hope.

Together, we can stand alongside families, bring comfort in the darkest moments, and fight for a future where childhood cancer no longer steals our children.

Our Values:
At the core of our foundation is a deep commitment to the families we serve. We walk alongside them during one of the most difficult journeys a family can face – and we do so with compassion, purpose, and heart. These are the values that guide us every step of the way:

HOPE: In the face of uncertainty, we choose hope. We believe in the resilience of children and the strength of their families. Hope is what carries us forward – a quiet light in the even darkest moments. 

COMMUNITY: No one should feel alone on this path. We are a community built on connection, shared experience, and mutual care. Whether it’s a kind word, a warm meal, or simply knowing someone understands – community can make the burden lighter.

SUPPORT: We offer more than help – we offer presence. Our support is practical, emotional, and personal. We’re here to lift families up, to stand by them, and to ease the weight they carry in whatever way we can.

COMPASSION: We meet every family with open hearts and open hands. Their pain becomes our purpose, and their stories fuel our dedication. Compassion is not just what we feel – it’s what we do.

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    Born July 11, 2008 at 6 pounds 7 ounces