Ex-Laker Hairston in Critical Condition

Former Laker forward Happy Hairston has shown slight improvement in recent days, but remains critically ill with inoperable prostate cancer and complications leading to pneumonia.

Hairston, 58, who is at the UCLA Medical Center, has been ill since last summer. His medical problems began with a rectal infection that required 14 surgical procedures, according to his sister, Joyce Black.

“He is such a gladiator,” she said. “The way he has held up through this is awesome. Now I know why he is a champion.”

Well-wishers are asked to direct calls or cards to the Happy Hairston Youth Foundation, 1801 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 535, Los Angeles, 90067.

Hairston, who played for the Lakers from 1969-70 through 1974-75, was a member of the championship team of 1971-72 that won a record 33 consecutive games.