September 21, 2017 

By Lauren A. Jones 

Contributing Writer 

 

 

Actor Michael B. Jordan can be found showcasing his talents on the big screen from his past roles in films like “Fruitvale Station” and “Creed”. On Saturday, September 16, Jordan hosted the first annual MBJAM17 in Marina del Rey, CA to benefit Lupus LA, a non-profit organization that has provided services to his mother, Donna Jordan, who is currently battling the disease. Lupus LA ambassador, Jordan, says he wanted to create a charity event that brings awareness and raises money for the autoimmune disease.

 

“I was trying to figure out a way to tie in charity, family and something that’s good for the kids and the adults as well,” said Jordan. The 30-year-old actor continued, “I love basketball, so I figured I would try and combine the two.”

 

A basketball-themed carnival is what Jordan came up with, featuring many of his celebrity friends, including the master of ceremonies Terrence J and special guest Blake Griffin, who coached opposite Jordan in the “Hot Shot GAAme Time Challenge.”

 

“When I was presented with the idea, it’s such a great cause and I heard there was going to be basketball involved so I jumped all over it,” said the Clippers star.

 

The $750 ticket gave attendees access to silent auctions, viewing virtual realities, massages, breakdance performances kicking off the courtside carnival, a variety of clinics and interactive displays. Hundreds of people witnessed a battle between team Michael B. Jordan (James Worthy, Miles Brown, Emmanuelle Chriqui) and team Blake Griffin (Jason Collins, Caleb McLaughin and Bret Lockett) facing off to raise donations for Lupus LA.

 

“I think we all know someone who’s been affected by it, so we just have to continue to use our platform to raise awareness and education until people are able to live comfortably and hopefully find a cure,” said former Laker, James Worthy. 

 

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system attacks its tissues, causing inflammation, swelling, pain, and damage.

 

“I feel blessed and honored that he took an interest in this way to bring attention to lupus, which it’s like a lot of people just don’t know about it,” said Donna Jordan. “It’s unpredictable because there are some days I feel like I can do cartwheels or at least close to it and there are some days that I truly can not get out of bed.”

 

Lupus LA has been instrumental in providing resources for not only Jordan’s mother through her battle, but countless other families across Los Angeles County and Southern California. Lupus LA raises funds for its patient programs, local rheumatology fellowships and research partners at the Lupus Research Alliance (LRA), while also providing new therapy options for its patients.

 “It’s tough, but my family and I just try to be there for her as much as you can not really understanding exactly what it feels like, but knowing that she’s in pain and uncomfortable,” said Jordan.

 

As part of the MBJAM17, the City of Los Angeles presented Michael B. Jordan and Donna Jordan with a certificate of recognition for their commitment to Lupus LA. Jordan says it is hope that through charity events such as the inaugural MBJAM17, lupus will one day have a cure.

Category: Arts & Culture