Cookie Johnson, wife of basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson can tell you that the HIV virus doesn’t discriminate. Everyone is vulnerable regardless of their race, gender or socio-economic status. Her family has been affected by the disease of AIDS, and the Johnson’s are using their celebrity status to educate the community and combat the spread of this epidemic.

Broadway House, the only long-term care facility for people living with AIDS in New Jersey was the site of Mrs. Johnson’s empowerment summit focused on women. Mrs. Johnson spoke about the difficulty of going public when her husband was diagnosed and how women need to take responsibility to protect their own health. She urged the more than 200 attendees to get tested and advised them that HIV+ people have many medical options, but that diagnosis and treatment are the keys to successful outcomes.

Mrs. Johnson met privately with the residents of Broadway House to encourage them in their struggle with this disease. She told them that “she and Magic are committed to ending the spread of HIV”. Her word of encouragement bolstered the spirits of the residents and she encouraged them to continue taking their medication and doing what it takes to get better.

The Magic Johnson Foundation has partnered with Abbot Pharmaceutical to establish a campaign to end Black HIV/AIDS. Blacks make up 13% of the population but accounted for 50% of the new cases of HIV in 2004. The “I Stand With Magic” campaign is committed to fighting HIV/AIDS by providing communities with information and resources for prevention and a way to join together to make a difference.

For information about admission to Broadway House please contact Dina Grace at (973) 268-9797 x1078 or contact Debbie Freisinger at extension 1034 to discuss becoming a volunteer.