“My World Slows Down”: Magic Johnson, Who Was Once Declared Not to Be a Saint, Shares a Glimpse Into His Tough Journey of Battling HIV

In 1991, Magic Johnson made a life-altering decision by disclosing his diagnosis of HIV. It was a disease that was widely misunderstood and stigmatized at the time. Rather than retreating, he chose to face it head-on. However, this also affected his wife, Cookie Johnson. Apparently, 45 days after they wed, Magic revealed his diagnosis to his wife. He even said she could leave if she wanted to. Two weeks ago, they completed 32 years of marriage. But their relationship hasn’t been without its trials and tribulations.

Over the years, the 5x champion’s dedication has extended beyond HIV to champion overall health and wellness in communities. His aims are particularly focused on prevention, early detection, and access to health care. He spoke about the same in his recent interview.

Magic Johnson’s discipline to maintain peak physical condition

Previously in an event, the legend revealed how early detection saved his life 32 years ago. He discovered that he was infected by the virus during one of his physical tests before the 1991-92 season. Despite having an intense work schedule, he takes time out for his health. In an urge to encourage people, he shared his own discipline and said, “I’m a disciplined man. I am a January guy. January is my yearly physical, so I get everything I need done at the top of the year.” 

He added, “I get my physical, my teeth cleaned at the dentist, and all the vaccinations. My world slows down in December and January so I like to get everything done. Then I am good for the year.”

During the conversation, the the Los Angeles Lakers legend touched upon several aspects that not only changed his life but made the world a better and safer place for everybody.

The 12x NBA All-Star player’s role in destigmatizing the disease was a crucial help for those who were suffering from the disease. His comeback in the 1992 All-Star game and stint with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1996 were equally important.

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None of that would have been possible without his wife Cookie Johnson’s support. However, the power couple had to endure a lot of problems before their marriage.

Magic Johnson and Cookie Johnson’s rocky relationship

The couple has been together for over 3 decades now. However, they never had it the easy way.

Despite his many good deeds, the legend was not a saint. Previously, the legend called off his wedding twice. So when she was asked to live with Magic, the 64-year-old decided to be independent and have a job for her security.

In an interview with the New York Times, Cookie shared, “I finally told him, ‘All right, I’ll move to L.A., but I will not live with you.’ I need to have my own job. I need to have my own security. It just scared me to be so dependent on somebody and then, boom, they just drop you like that.”

Back in 2001, they went through a tumultuous period again. Much to fans’ delight, the two got back together. 

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