Perception of HIV would have not changed without the commitment of dedicated individuals to step forward to educate people. Magic Johnson’s pivotal role in raising awareness about the disease was equally significant. Recently, the NBA great was recognized for his efforts at the Elizabeth Taylor Foundation. The former US President Barack Obama was also among those who acknowledged the legend for his dedicated advocacy and contributions to HIV awareness. 

While the 62-year-old was absent at the meeting, he sent a message to praise the 5x champion and his wife.

Barack Obama’s touching message to Magic and Cookie Johnson

The star-studded event saw the likes of actress Angela Bassett, Courtney B. Vance, Christine Chiu, Paris Jackson, and more. Paying homage to the former Los Angeles Lakers player, Courtney B. Vance read Obama’s message, “As a young man, I remember watching Magic beat the Philadelphia 76ers in game six of the 1980 NBA finals. I was a 6ers fan at the time, and I wasn’t too thrilled watching a rookie end my team’s season. But it wasn’t long before Magic won me over, like he did so many other people, with his combination of unmistakable talent and undeniable charm. And then came 1991. All these years later, it’s hard to explain to young people just how big a deal Magic’s announcement was.”  According to WWD’s latest article, the note read “At the time, a lot of people didn’t understand HIV and AIDs. We didn’t know if Magic would survive, let alone play basketball again. But as the saying goes, adversity doesn’t build character, it reveals it. And Magic’s pragmatic, optimistic approach to his diagnosis ended up changing the way the world saw the disease.”

Talking about Elizabeth Taylor’s commitment to raising awareness and funding programs, the couple expressed their gratitude. 

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Magic and Cookie Johnson had the best evening at the Elizabeth Taylor Foundation Ball 

After exchanging greetings, the night turned lively as Gladys Knight delivered a captivating performance that left everyone in awe. Shortly after, the Johnson couple joined the dance floor to the background song of “The Best Thing That Ever Happened.” The moment couldn’t have been more emblematic of their enduring bond, having remained together for over three decades, setting an inspiring example for their admirers.

Whether it’s during his speeches or within the captions of his Instagram posts, the iconic figure consistently pays homage to his beloved wife. His profound affection and appreciation for her shine through in his actions, a sentiment that fans frequently witness. Following this heartwarming moment, the duo posed for photographs alongside other luminaries in attendance. They also shared a selection of snapshots from the event on their Instagram accounts to thank Basset and Vance for the event. All in all, the event exceeded expectations and left everyone truly amazed.

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