Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson shocked the world with a devastating announcement in 1991. He revealed that he had tested positive for HIV. At that time, it was considered a death sentence for the patient. Thanks to the advancements in science and medicine, Johnson has lived just fine for decades now. However, he once opened up about his condition in an interview. During the interview, the host had asked whether Johnson still has the virus or not.

The five-time NBA champion confirmed that the virus is still indeed inside him. However, thanks to early detection and proper medication, he has lived through it. He stressed the importance of early detection during the interview and detailed how it helped him and might help countless others.

NBA legend Magic Johnson once opened up on his experience with HIV

Magic Johnson is a living example of how early detection and medication can save a person’s life. Back in 1991, he was one of the biggest stars in the league playing for the Los Angeles Lakers. However, Magic shocked the world with his decision to retire after he revealed he had tested positive for HIV. The former NBA champion and millions around the world thought of the virus as a death sentence.

During an interview with Charlamagne Tha God of The Breakfast Club back in 2014, the host touched upon how Johnson made the whole world aware of the virus. In the same segment, he asked the NBA legend whether he still has the virus or not. 

Johnson said, “Yeah, I still have it. It’s just laying dead in my body because the medicine has done a wonderful job. Man, when I first announced, there was only one drug, AZT. Now, they got over 30. Early detection can actually save your life.”

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He stressed the importance of early detection and how the advancements in medicine and science can save a person’s life compared to the situation around 30 years ago. Moreover, he also asserted that he is both a blessing and a curse for the virus. Although he has made millions aware, people sometimes brush off the virus because Johnson managed to survive.

Opening up to his wife was tough for Johnson

Johnson had just recently married Cookie, his wife, and she was pregnant with his kid at the time. Naturally, breaking out the devastating news to his wife was tough for the three-time MVP.

He said, “It was hard because I loved her so much and I hated to hurt her.” Although Cookie Johnson was devastated, she was very supportive. In fact, Magic has acknowledged her support and how it helped him multiple times in the past.

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He went on to the extent of saying that he probably wouldn’t have survived if Cookie had left him during that sensitive time. Johnson currently leads a healthy life and is active in business as well as in other spheres of life.