NBA star Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a rare form of leukemia, back in December 2008 but his prognosis is encouraging and he even turned into spokesman for Novartis, the Swiss pharmaceutical company Novartis, which makes a drug that treats the illness.

Kareem wants to make a different and raise awareness for this type of cancer. He said, “I’ve never been a person to share my private life. But I can help save lives. It’s incumbent on someone like me to talk about this.”

The 62 year-old was absolutely devastated and scared when he heard the diagnosis. “I was scared,” he said. “I thought it was all the same. I thought it could mean I have a month to live. That was my first question. Was I going to make it?”

The Lakers special assistant sends a message of hope for everyone suffering from this disease – he claims he continues to work and still manages to eat what he wants with some reservations. “I’m able to sneak out for Thai food,” Kareem said. “There is hope. This condition can be treated. You can still live a productive, full life. I’m living proof I can make it.” Keep strong, Kareem!!