Christine Johnson was heartbroken upon learning of the life-threatening disease her son was battling. Looking back, Magic Johnson recalled that it was the support of his parents and siblings that gave him strength. Even before that, his parents were always there for him, even though they wanted him to be independent. Recalling his first experience living alone for college, the 5x champion emotionally detailed his love and gratitude for his parents.

Johnson shared that his mother taught him and his siblings all the basic life skills, including cooking. That is the reason why, during his 5-7 years living alone for the first time in college, he was able to cook for himself. 

“When I first got to the Lakers, you know, I was on my own for four, five, six, seven years. So, again, I could survive being on my own. Because of the life lessons of both my mother and my father. And, again, something I didn’t know, I would always call and say, hey, being close to your parents was a blessing for me,” Johnson said on the podcast, ‘Raising Fame.’

Johnson fondly recounted that he used to call his mother to ask about different recipes. He was always closely bonded with his parents. He is still grateful for the major support system his parents provided. His mother would often invite people from the church and neighborhood over for a meal. The Los Angeles Lakers legend shared that kindness was instilled in him by watching his parents.

Even when his mother believed that the right and safe decision for Johnson would be to move away from the spotlight after his diagnosis, Johnson reminded her of her own teaching. 

Magic Johnson’s life lessons continued to help him with crucial moments of his life

He shared how his mother had taught him to “never run from a problem.” This was how his journey to help others and raise awareness about the disease began.

“I had to stand there stand up because there’s more people like me who would get devastating news I’ve never ran away from a situation that’s not who I am they didn’t build me like that I was not going to be defeated that’s not who I am,” Johnson detailed in the story. 

His father, Earvin Johnson Sr., passed away last year at the age of 88. Johnson’s mother, who was present at the show, opened her heart to the hosts Lucille O’Neal and Sonya Curry of the show. Speaking about Johnson’s HIV diagnosis in 1991, Christine shared that she had just one wish for her son. 

“I just prayed and I said Lord just don’t let my son die I said don’t let him die. I just kept praying,” she said. Initially unable to accept the bitter truth, she drove without a destination in mind until regaining control over her emotions. Johnson was visibly emotional and teary-eyed as he watched his mother make the heartbreaking confession. 

These life lessons were passed on to Johnson by his parents, and he, in turn, has shared them with his own children.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.