Magic Johnson stated his intention to continue living on the day he revealed he had been diagnosed with HIV. He has been playing in the NBA for 30 years, and he is doing well both physically and emotionally. His wife, ride-or-die Earlitha “Cookie” Kelly, deserves a great deal of credit for it.

Johnson announced his retirement in 1991, the year they were married, and they have been together ever since. Cookie was the philanthropist and steadfast support system for many people, including Shaquille O’Neal, his ex-girlfriend Shaunie, and Magic, who was the businessman, health advocate, and hypeman of every generation. Johnson will always say that it wouldn’t be possible without his wife, even if he has demonstrated that HIV is no longer a death sentence.

In an April interview with People Magazine, Johnson said Cookie helped him stay on top of his health. “I have fulfilled my responsibilities, the medication has fulfilled itss, and my wife continues to monitor me to ensure that I am fulfilling my obligations.”

Magic Johnson’s retirement was the last thing anyone anticipated when he convened a press conference at The Forum on November 7, 1991. Not to mention the disclosure of an HIV diagnosis. His speech, which is still remembered today, was poignant and sought to eradicate the stigma associated with HIV at the time. He praised his doctors, NBA Commissioner David Stern, and teammates Jerry West in his speech. His response to Cookie Johnson was, “My wife is fine.”

They first crossed paths while attending Michigan, but Magic’s NBA prominence caused their friendship to deteriorate. Cookie learned she was pregnant their first child together shortly after they were married. Before the press briefing, Magic informed her of his condition two days later. Both Cookie and her infant were doing well. The next year, EJ would be born healthily. Additionally, Magic and Cookie are more powerful than before.

The five-time champion and his spouse continued to be involved with the Los Angeles Lakers after 1991. In 1996, the year they acquired Magic’s prodigy Shaquille O’Neal, Magic formally retired for good. In Los Angeles, Shaq met his now-ex, Shaunie, who would become friends with the Johnsons for the rest of his life.

Cookie had a presence about her, as Shaunie Henderson demonstrated in her book Undefeated. At separate points in time, Lakers WAGs did not extend a warm welcome to Cookie or Shaunie. However, Cookie gave Shaunie a hug, and the Basketball Wives star still loves her for it.

Cookie is naturally inclined to assist. Cookie is no slouch, just as Magic dispelled misconceptions about his handicap by simply living and grinning. She has generated money for HIV research, care, and awareness while leading her and Magic’s several charitable organizations. Additionally, she is an outspoken supporter of women’s and reproductive health. You can understand Magic’s perspective when you have a supporter like Cookie.