Members of the community in Islamorada are seeking help to provide some relief for a long-time and admired member, Paul Johnson, owner-operator of the Reef Runner. Captain Paul Johnson has had a series of unfortunate medical and financial setbacks that have been out of his hands. He is originally from Long Island, New York. Like many fellow Florida Keys residents, he arrived here on a whim. On a nice day in 1979, remembering how he liked Islamorada so much when he first visited, Paul got on his bike and rode from New York to the Florida Keys. He has been a contributing member to the charter fishing industry in the Keys and the greater Upper Keys since he arrived, becoming a captain in 1985. Since his arrival, Paul has been an upstanding member of the community. The Reef Runner has been Paul’s for the last 20 years. He’s been a role model for young mates seeking to carve out a place for themselves in the industry, always emphasizing doing the right thing. The community is grateful for Captain Paul Johnson.

It seems like the worst things happen to the best people sometimes. Paul was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma 5 years ago. The initial sickness and resulting complications resulted in hundreds of lost trips for Paul over the first year. Several infections due to complications with his immune system have taken him out of work as well over the past five years. Just when we thought Paul was free and clear, his transmission on the Reef Runner went bad. The medical complications and cost of a new transmission are too much for Paul to take care of on his own. This is where community is important.

We feel that a fundraiser is in order to help Paul get back on his feet and get the Reef Runner running on the reef again. Please help by donating to get Captain Paul Johnson back on his feet and running.

We are all grateful to live in such a wonderful community and appreciate any and all support for Paul!