TikTok star Mainly Mannie, celebrated for his “Boss and CEO” alter ego and “You have been promoted” catchphrase, boasts a significant online presence with 1.5 million TikTok followers and an additional 384,000 on Instagram.
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The 33-year-old, whose path seemed set for wider recognition, recently posted an emotional and unexpected video. In it, he appeared visibly changed, the famous bobbed wig was gone and his typically clear diction was noticeably slurred. Despite the change, he smiled as he announced his HIV diagnosis.
In fact, he publicly disclosed his illness to his followers in a series of videos posted on October 12 and 13, explaining that he learned of it over the summer after experiencing an inability to walk. In a poignant hospital conversation, Mannie shared, “Listen, I am not the victim here. Yes, my ex gave me this and I didn’t know, he hid a lot of things, but I’m not a victim because I had signs. I was so deep in love. But God is good. I know now.”
Mannie’s fans have shown their support, praising her positive outlook despite such an unfortunate situation.
“God is good. Keep in faith love and positivity and thank you for your energy. You made me smile today,” commented actor Christina Milian on Instagram.
“He has such a positive attitude,” TikToker @jesspostedthat said. “He’s trying to make us laugh, this, that, and the third, and I am baffled at people can be so fucking trifling. Bitch, why, why would you do that? Why? “
“For Manny’s hair to be gone like that, for Manny to look so sick, I said, ‘No. They took Manny’s beauty coins no’, that dirty, rotten scoundrel. “I’m serious, like this is devastating,” said TikToker @everybodyhatekrissy
Mannie said since starting treatment he has made significant progress in his recovery. He even shared a video of himself relearning how to walk with the help of a walker and nursing assistance.
“I’m in rehab still learning to walk,” he shared in a follow-up video. “I’m not good yet, but I can at least stand up.”
Mannie also has started a GoFundMe to help pay for his HIV medication. The page has raised over $12,000 of its $18,000 goal so far.
“Thank y’all so much. Every little donation — the fives, the big hundreds… I don’t know what to say. All I know is that I’m going to have a better future because of this.”
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