LOS ANGELES (AP) — Magic Johnson realizes he woke up the world when he revealed his HIV diagnosis on Nov. 7, 1991.
He's still determined to keep the world aware of an illness that persists two decades after the Lakers superstar put the AIDS epidemic under a new spotlight.
Johnson recognized the anniversary of his historic announcement at Staples Center on Monday with an upbeat celebration tinged with constant caution. Dozens of politicians, celebrities and Lakers greats joined Johnson and AIDS researcher David Ho for a luncheon after his Magic Johnson Foundation announced a $1 million gift to continue its mission for worldwide HIV awareness and testing.
Johnson has managed the virus with drugs and exercise, never having significant health problems. Ho says Johnson's health is the new normal for Western patients living with HIV.
Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.
