They were like family, because they were very poor greasers and belonged to the same gang. Also, johnnys dad was a.b.u.s.i.v.e and so johnny often stayed at ponys house. Pony was also helping johnny deal with d.e.p.r.e.s.s.i.o.n. and s.u.i.c.i.d.a.l. urges. Poor johnny. :(