Who is Cheryl Pistono? The Story of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Ex-Girlfriend

Cheryl Pistono is often recognized in the public eye as the former girlfriend of NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. However, her story extends far beyond her association with the sports superstar. Born on September 9, 1956, in LaSalle, Illinois, Cheryl has forged a life marked by resilience, independence, and spiritual depth. This article delves into her journey from a small town in the Midwest to her life as a mother, businesswoman, and practitioner of Buddhism, offering a comprehensive look at a woman who has lived beyond the shadows of fame.

Detail	Information
Full Name	Cheryl Pistono Jenkins
Birth Date	September 9, 1956
Birthplace	LaSalle, Illinois, USA
Current Residence	Los Angeles, California, USA
Height	5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters)
Weight	65 kg
Parents	John Joseph Pistono Jr. and Sylvia Ann Waclaw
Siblings	Kay, John, James, Jeffery
Ex-Boyfriend	Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Husband	Steven Jenkins
Children	Amir Abdul-Jabbar, Jesse Jenkins, Taaj Jenkins, Brianna Jenkins
Net Worth	$400,000 (as of 2023)

Early Life and Background

Cheryl Pistono was born into a working-class family in LaSalle, Illinois. Her parents, John Joseph Pistono Jr. and Sylvia Ann Waclaw, instilled strong values of hard work and integrity in their children. Growing up with siblings Kay, John, James, and Jeffery, Cheryl’s early life was rooted in the typical American family dynamic, yet she always harbored a spirit of independence that would later define her personal and professional life.

Age and Physical Appearance

Cheryl Pistono, born on September 9, 1956, showcases the elegance of maturity at 66 years old. Her stature is marked by a poised 5 feet 6 inches frame, and she maintains a healthy weight of around 65 kg. Her appearance is characterized by her brown hair and black eyes, which echo a thoughtful and serene demeanor. Cheryl’s physical presence is complemented by her calm and collected nature, reflecting her years of practice in mindfulness and her commitment to a healthy lifestyle that keeps her looking vibrant and graceful even in her sixties.

Moving West: A Journey of Independence

At the tender age of 16, Cheryl made a life-changing decision to leave her family home and move to the West Coast. This bold move was driven by her desire for personal growth and a quest for new opportunities. Settling initially in Los Angeles, California, Cheryl quickly adapted to the vibrant culture of the West Coast, which was starkly different from the quiet streets of LaSalle.

Career Development

Cheryl’s professional journey is as varied as it is impressive. After moving to California, she continued her education in nursing, which provided a stable foundation for her future career endeavors. Cheryl also gained valuable experience working in legal and accounting offices, where she developed a strong skill set in organization, financial management, and legal compliance. These roles highlighted her versatility and ability to adapt to different professional environments.

Cheryl Pistono’s Parents

Cheryl Pistono was born to John Joseph Pistono Jr. and Sylvia Ann Waclaw in LaSalle, Illinois. Her parents, embodying the hard-working ethos of mid-20th-century America, provided a stable and nurturing environment for Cheryl and her siblings. John, working in labor-intensive roles, and Sylvia, managing home affairs, instilled values of diligence, respect, and familial loyalty in their children. These foundational principles guided Cheryl throughout her life, influencing her personal decisions and her approach to relationships and parenting. The grounded upbringing by her parents played a crucial role in shaping her character and resilience.

Relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Cheryl’s relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar began in 1977, at a time when Abdul-Jabbar was not just a basketball star but a cultural icon. Their relationship was rooted in shared intellectual and spiritual interests, particularly Buddhism, which played a significant role in their connection. Despite the public fascination with their partnership, Cheryl and Kareem maintained a private and deeply personal relationship. In 1980, they welcomed a son, Amir, which marked a joyous milestone in their lives. However, by 1985, Cheryl and Kareem amicably parted ways, focusing on co-parenting their son and pursuing their individual life paths.

Life After Kareem

Cheryl found love again with Steven Jenkins, whom she later married. Their life together has been marked by a shared commitment to family and a quiet, fulfilling domestic life. Cheryl and Steven have three children: Jesse, Taaj, and Brianna. This chapter of her life highlights her role as a devoted mother and wife, far removed from the media spotlight that once followed her.

Philosophy and Spiritual Practices

Cheryl’s spiritual journey is deeply intertwined with her practice of Buddhism, which has offered her a framework for dealing with life’s challenges and changes. The principles of mindfulness and compassion guide her daily life, influencing her interactions with others and her approach to parenting and relationships.

Challenges and Overcoming Adversity

Cheryl’s life has not been without challenges. From the public scrutiny that came with dating a high-profile athlete to managing a blended family, she has navigated each situation with grace and resilience. Her ability to maintain her privacy and integrity through various life trials is a testament to her strong character.

Current Life and Activities

Today, Cheryl Pistono resides in Los Angeles, California, where she continues to focus on her family, spiritual practices, and personal well-being. She remains an active member of her community, quietly contributing to various charitable causes and maintaining a life that reflects her values and beliefs.

Legacy and Influence

While Cheryl may not seek public recognition, her influence on those around her—especially her children and community—is profound. Through her actions and choices, she serves as a role model of dedication, resilience, and compassion.

Conclusion

Cheryl Pistono’s story is one of quiet strength and profound resilience. Her journey from LaSalle, Illinois, to the West Coast and through various realms of personal and professional life is a compelling narrative of a woman who has lived on her own terms, with grace and courage.

FAQs About Cheryl Pistono

Who is Cheryl Pistono?

Cheryl Pistono is best known for her past relationship with NBA legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Beyond this association, she is a mother, businesswoman, and practitioner of Buddhism. Born on September 9, 1956, in LaSalle, Illinois, Cheryl has carved out a distinct identity for herself, characterized by her independence and spiritual depth.

How long was Cheryl Pistono in a relationship with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar?

Cheryl Pistono and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar were in a relationship for about eight years, from 1977 to 1985. Their relationship was notable for its depth, centered around mutual intellectual and spiritual interests, particularly Buddhism.

Did Cheryl Pistono and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar have any children together?

Yes, Cheryl Pistono and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar have one son together, named Amir Abdul-Jabbar, who was born in 1980. Amir’s birth was a significant event during their relationship.

What is Cheryl Pistono’s educational background?

Cheryl Pistono continued her education in nursing after moving to the West Coast. The specifics of the institutions she attended are not detailed, but her education played a crucial role in her professional life.

What does Cheryl Pistono do for a living?

Cheryl Pistono has had a diverse career path, including roles in nursing, legal, and accounting offices. Her professional life reflects her adaptability and commitment to continual learning and development.

Where does Cheryl Pistono live now?

Cheryl Pistono currently resides in Los Angeles, California. She leads a quiet life focused on her family, spiritual practices, and personal well-being, away from the public spotlight.

How has Buddhism influenced Cheryl Pistono’s life?

Buddhism has had a profound impact on Cheryl Pistono’s life, shaping her philosophy and approach to life’s challenges. The principles of mindfulness and compassion guide her daily activities and interactions, providing her with a framework for living a purposeful and centered life.

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