Magic Johnson Confronts AIDS

We have forgotten about an important and unlauded hero in Magic Johnson’s HIV tragedy--his wife. Can you imagine the terror of realizing that not only your husband, but possibly you and your unborn child may be HIV-positive? Thank God that so far she and her child have tested negative.

As someone who co-facilitates a support group that includes wives married to men who are HIV-positive, I can tell you that they experience fear and betrayal, mourn the loss of their dreams and face uncertainty for the future of their children. And although in many cases they have been the unwilling victims of their husband’s irresponsibility, they stand by their husbands and families with uncommon courage and loyalty. These are the qualities of heroes--the silent and unrecognized heroes.

RENEE DALLAS

Orange