Michael J. Fox

Michael J. Fox, the retired actor famously known for his role in Back to the Future, has shown incredible strength and determination in his battle against Parkinson’s disease. Despite facing significant challenges, he has dedicated himself to raising awareness and supporting research for this debilitating illness, becoming the face of the fight against it since receiving his diagnosis in the early 1990s.

Recently, Fox opened up about his struggles with the disease, acknowledging that it is becoming more difficult each day. In a candid interview with CBS Sunday Morning, he expressed the reality of his situation, saying, “It’s getting harder. It’s getting tougher. But that’s the way it is. Who do I see about that?”

He shared the impact Parkinson’s has had on his physical well-being, revealing that he recently underwent spinal surgery to remove a tumor. While the surgery was not serious, it affected his gait and caused him to stumble and sustain injuries. Despite these setbacks, Fox maintains a positive outlook, stating, “You don’t die from Parkinson’s. You die with Parkinson’s.” However, he candidly admitted that he does not believe he will live to be 80 years old.

Fox’s battle with this brain disorder began in 1991 when he first noticed a tremor in his pinkie finger. With the upcoming release of his new documentary, Still, which chronicles his life over the past three decades, his journey has once again come to the forefront.

In the film, he bravely confronts the intense pain he experiences with each tremor. He explains that it is not just the movement itself that causes pain, but also the moments of freezing, where the absence of movement becomes infused with energy, creating a burning sensation. Despite this, Fox emphasizes that he has endured much more than just the pain of Parkinson’s, including numerous broken bones, and has learned to persevere. He believes that there is a story to tell in his experiences and chooses to focus on celebrating the positive aspects of life.

Despite his health challenges, Fox promises that he is not “going anywhere.” Even though he announced his retirement in 2021, he firmly believes that there is more to celebrate than to mourn in his life. His unwavering optimism serves as an inspiration to us all.

Let us take a moment to appreciate Michael J. Fox’s incredible resilience and determination. He is a shining example of strength in the face of adversity. Please join us in sending him our best wishes and support as he continues his journey.