Teresa Wright Johnson

Patient Advocate, Public Speaker, and Consultant

Teresa has endured multiple open heart surgeries and cardiac procedures. She was diagnosed with MS in November of 2014 and is under the care of an esteemed MS Specialist. Teresa knows there is a calling on her life and she fully embraces that. Teresa uses her illnesses as opportunities to further rely on her faith, walk in her truth, raise awareness and educate others. She believes that she is purposely on purpose. Teresa uses her life to empower and inspire others. She embodies community service, is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc and is active with several other organizations. Teresa aspires to be a light that shines in dark places. Teresa is an author, poet, inspirational speaker and a community activist. She enjoys writing, reading, listening to music and spending time with her family and friends. Teresa acknowledges the unwavering love of her wonderful parents throughout her life and her supportive and loving husband Marvin who is beside her through every trial and triumph.

Education & Professional Experience

  • Rutgers University graduate (Go Scarlet Knights!)
  • Retired NJ State Senior Parole Officer with an extensive background in Criminal Justice and Social Services
  • Past Contributor, MultipleSclerosis.net
  • Columnist for Multiple Sclerosis News Today
  • Past Contributor for HeartFailure.net
  • Past Contributing Author for Modern Day MS
  • Featured Nia Magazine, Emerge Woman, and iPain Magazine

Organizations & Associations

  • Board of Directors Member for Lehigh Valley American Heart Association
  • 2020 Advisor, Janssen HealtheVoices
  • Chair of the Board of Directors for US Heart Valve Voice
  • Past Health and Wellness Chair for the NAACP
  • Engagement Committee for iConquerMS
  • Participant on Multiple Advisory Boards and Councils
  • RIVE Council Member
  • MSAA African American Advisory Board

Accolades & Awards

  • Essex County of Board of Chosen Freeholders Commendation for Compassionate Community Service
  • Panel Judge, 2021 Lyfebulb-Bristol Myer Squibb “Addressing Unmet Needs in MS: An Innovation Challenge”.
  • Easton Branch #2260 Image Award
  • iPain 2019 Hero of Hope
  • PA House of Representatives Recognition of Outstanding Health Awareness
  • PA Legislative Black Caucus Acknowledgement
  • Newark Bronze Shields, Inc. Inaugural Courage Award
  • Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Omega Mu Zeta President’s Pick Award
  • Lillian & Lillian Foundation Law Enforcement Award

Blog Posts

No Greater Love

My beloved father departed this life on Valentine’s Day of 2022, approximately 16 months after my mother. I cannot elucidate the depth of my pain.  Losing my parents have cast me into a nightmare from which I pray to awaken.  Sadly, I cannot.  This is the reality of...

My 22nd Anniversary

Today marks the 22nd anniversary of my second open heart surgery. Of course I am beyond grateful to witness this. Last year my phone rang. On the other side of the line was my daddy. " Happy Anniversary daddy's big, old baby! Your daddy will stay with you for as long...

Twenty-One and Counting

I remember my 21st birthday.  Excitement filled my being as I welcomed the induction into adulthood, or more specifically womanhood. I wanted to conquer the world. My parents and my childhood cardiologist had in depth discussions with me about life.  They advised me...