Janisa Johnson, a volleyball player and an American import to the Petro Gazz Angels, died after a battle with colon cancer. She was 32. Johnson was diagnosed with colon cancer in March 2021 and underwent chemotherapy and radiation.
Janisa Johnson’s Cancer Journey
In a March 2021 video announcement on her team’s X account, she said she was no longer allowed to play the rest of the reason “because of a serious health issue.”
“I would love to be on the court of course but because of my health concerns,” she said, “I have to do everything to get healthy so that I am able to get back on the court next season.”
In April 2022, she opened up about undergoing chemotherapy on Instagram. “Chemo took a lot from me,” she wrote in a post, sharing she had 12 sessions done at the time.
Volleyball Career
She last played for the Philippines in the 2019 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference, leading the Angels to their victory. She earned the Finals MVP award for her performance.
Johnson first played for the country at BaliPure-National University in the 2018 PVL Reinforced Conference. After her Philippine stint, the Poland-based Johnson played for Radomka and was instrumental in the team’s solo second-place finish in the Polish Women’s Volleyball League.
Tributes
“In loving memory of Janisa. We will never forget your beautiful smile. May your last jump be the highest. Rest in peace,” the post read. Volley Chismis – ”It’s with a heavy heart that we announce the passing o Janisa Johnson, a former standout of the Petro Gazz Angels, who courageously fought cancer for years. Her pivotal role in leading Petro Gazz to victory in the PVL Reinforced Conference championship in 2019 will always be remembered. Today, our Angel has earned her wings, but her legacy will endure in the hearts of her fans, teammates, and loved ones. Now, our Angel has earned her wings. Her legacy will forever live on in the hearts of her fans, teammates, and loved ones. I’m grateful I got to connect with you and chat with you in the past. Your strength and passion will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Janisa.”
