Magic Johnson: Surviving Aids
“Here I am saying it can happen to anybody. Even me, Magic Johnson,” he states (Greenberg np). Johnson says that getting acquired immunodeficiency system (AIDS) can happen to anyone, no matter how rich, poor, or famous. He is the living proof. Johnson did not intend to get AIDS it just happens sometimes, on accident. To begin with, having AIDS is not that great. There are many symptoms for AIDS , including a weakened immune system, fevers, weight loss, and even diarrhea (Kallen 26). Occurring first is the asymptomatic stage. Symptoms include enlargement of the lymph nodes, body rash, and mouth and skin problems (“Symptoms and Stages”). The second stage is chronic HIV, also known as human immunodeficiency virus,
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Johnson had said “ I've done everything in this game.... I've won championships in high school, college, and the pros. And I've won every award there is. But I don't have an Olympic gold medal. God willing, I'll get it” (61). Johnson had happily accepted and was ready to win the Olympics with his team also known as “The Dream Team”. Johnson, three months after his diagnosis, could still not stay away from basketball. Therefore he went back to play in the NBA All Star Game (Dakers 86). That game, he ended up getting the All Star Most Valued Player award (MVP) (88). After the fact, Johnson went back to the NBA and play basketball for the Lakers, the team he loved . Johnson then announced his retirement for the second time to be back playing basketball two years later(Dakers 90-91). After a devastating first-round loss in the NBA playoffs Johnson decided to call it quits for real (Lakers 92-93).
Above all Johnson had great influences and inspirations. His wife Cookie was there and supported him every step of the way.Another one of his inspirations was his fans and the press. They continue to send Johnson cards, donations, and letters. Younger people got tested and stayed safe showed they cared and listened to him (Dakers 79). Last but not least is his teammates. They showed him much support and love and were always cheering him up and still making him feel apart of the team