“I think that if Cookie had left, I’d probably be dead now — no question about it.” Just months after marrying his high school sweetheart, Magic Johnson revealed his HIV diagnosis to the world. His wife, Cookie, had the option of leaving him as per the Los Angeles Lakers legend. Yet she decided to fight the battle alongside her husband and now has successfully completed over three decades together.

“33 years ago, I made the best decision of my life by marrying the beautiful Cookie Johnson. I thank God every day for blessing me with my wife, best friend, and loving mother of our amazing children all wrapped into one! I’m beyond grateful for your heart of gold, unwavering love for our family, and irreplaceable presence in this world. Happy Anniversary baby!”

Magic Johnson made the anniversary celebration even more emotional with the heartwarming tweet. His wife, Cookie, has been his pillar of strength from fighting HIV taboo to achieving billionaire status. Three years ago, he even organized a private Frankie Beverly and Maze performance for the couple. The two started their beautiful journey back in a Michigan-based high school.

Yet, the Hall of Famer wasn’t sure about his marriage multiple times. Even one of his family members advised him to not go ahead with the marriage. Magic’s sister, Pearl, on the Apple TV+ documentary series ‘They Call Me Magic,’ revealed the conversation. “If you’re not sure, don’t do it. Because I didn’t want him to hurt her.” However, he was able to win Cookie’s heart with the grandest gesture.

Cookie and Magic Johnson from a rocky start to an inseparable bond

While they were students at Michigan State University, they did break up a couple of times. Magic Johnson almost broke off the engagement because of the hesitation he had which his sister spoke about. When the 3x Finals MVP was completely sure, he made it a point to prove to his partner what she really meant to him.

Renting out an entire restaurant with friends and family present. Magic Johnson popped the question and Cookie couldn’t help herself and hugged her soon-to-be husband. Later, she also realized the ring was not the same, it was even bigger than the previous one. Ultimately, the size of the ring did not matter more importantly, the gesture and assurance of Magic swept her completely.

Apart from being a support to Johnson, Cookie is a successful entrepreneur and an author. She heads her and Magic’s multiple nonprofits, plus she raised funds for HIV research, care, and awareness. She’s also a vocal advocate for women’s and reproductive health. Even being a mentor to Shaunie Henderson and Gabrielle Union and helping them navigate the difficult part of being wives of successful basketball players. So no doubt, Magic Johnson is celebrating his beloved wife. After all, she has been her pillar of strength in his journey.

“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.”