Sunday marks the 30th anniversary of Magic Johnson’s decision to retire from basketball upon learning he had been diagnosed with HIV—one of the biggest, most impactful moments for public health in generations. His diagnosis not only opened people’s eyes to the nature of the disease, but over time—with proper management and treatment—illustrated the virus didn’t have to be a death sentence. Now, three decades later, Johnson continues use his platform to make a positive impact.
Back on Nov. 7, 1991, Johnson’s mood was understandably somber. The human immunodeficiency virus was widely thought to be one that avoided heterosexuals who weren’t using dirty needles.