Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Earlitha “Cookie” Kelly have been through a lot as a couple. Magic knew Cookie ever since his high school days in Lansing. They were in an on-and-off relationship for years before finally committing to each other. However, there were still some issues. The couple’s engagement was shockingly called off twice. When the engagement was called off the second time, Cookie had already bought her wedding gown, and even the couple’s family was invited.

Despite the struggles, Magic Johnson and Cookie tied the knot in 1991. As everything finally came together, there was a major blow. Just 45 days later, Johnson’s HIV infection was identified which was a huge shock for the couple.

Cookie on Magic Johnson speaking to his intimate partners

When Magic Johnson found out he was HIV positive in 1991, it was also during the time when Cookie had learned that she was pregnant. So it was a very emotional moment for the couple. Cookie who has usually avoided the media wrote a memoir Believing in Magic in 2016 where she talked about her marriage and life with her husband. Johnson and Cookie once sat down with ABC News for an interview during the release of the book.

During the interview, the Los Angeles Lakers legend admitted revealing his infection to his wife was the hardest thing he ever did. Cookie then said that they both embraced each other and cried. She added that Johnson said he would understand if Cookie wanted to leave him. However, she stood with him throughout the battle. But Cookie disclosed it was hard for her when Magic called some of his partners after he found out about the infection.

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When the four-time champion found out about the infection, he felt he has the responsibility to inform his intimate partners about it. When the host asked about it, Cookie said, “It was hard. I was like, ‘Who is he calling? Why is he in there so long?’ He’s calling so many people. Yeah, that was a difficult day.”

However, her major concern was about her baby.

A huge relief

Magic Johnson and Cookie were concerned about the pregnancy and the health of the fetus. When Cookie was tested for HIV, it came out negative. The doctors assured her that when a mother tests negative for HIV, the fetus won’t be infected as well.

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This was a huge relief for the couple who had been through a lot in the days after finding Johnson’s HIV infection. They welcomed their son Earvin Johnson III in 1992 and then adopted a daughter in 1995.