Michael J. Fox, known for his iconic roles in movies such as “Back to the Future,” recently took the time to reflect on his journey with Parkinson’s disease and express gratitude towards his family for their unwavering support. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 64-year-old actor shared heartfelt sentiments about how his loved ones, especially his wife Tracy Pollan and their four children, have been a pillar of strength for him throughout his battle with the neurodegenerative disorder.
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Attending the “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Cure Parkinson’s” event in New York City on November 15, Fox spoke candidly about the incredible support he has received from his family. He particularly praised his wife Tracy Pollan and their children – son Sam, daughters Esmé, Aquinnah, and Schuyler – for always standing by his side. Fox expressed his appreciation for their unwavering support, describing them as not just his family but also his friends. He noted how their presence on the red carpet never fails to surprise him, emphasizing that their consistent support over the years has been a source of great comfort and strength for him.
Living with Parkinson’s disease since his diagnosis in 1991, Fox has been a vocal advocate for raising awareness and funding for research into the condition. In 2000, he founded the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, which recently commemorated its 25th anniversary. The foundation has made significant contributions to advancing the understanding of Parkinson’s disease and has allocated over $2.5 billion towards research efforts aimed at finding a cure for the illness.
Addressing the challenges of living with Parkinson’s, Fox acknowledged the importance of a strong support system. He recognized the immense value of his family’s unwavering support in helping him navigate through the ups and downs of his condition. Despite the difficulties posed by the disease, Fox’s optimism and resilience, coupled with the love and support he receives from his family, have played a crucial role in his ability to cope with Parkinson’s.
The “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Cure Parkinson’s” event, where Fox shared his sentiments, was a star-studded affair. Co-chaired by Fox and Pollan, the event featured performances by musicians like Jackson Browne and comedic routines by Nikki Glaser and Jon Stewart. The gathering was also attended by celebrities like Meg Ryan, Clark Gregg, and Julianna Margulies, who came out to show their support for Parkinson’s research and raise awareness about the disease.
Tracy Pollan, Fox’s wife, also emphasised the importance of acknowledging the challenges faced by both the patient and their caregivers in dealing with Parkinson’s. She highlighted the significance of understanding the complexities of living with the illness and expressed gratitude for her children’s unwavering support. Pollan commended Fox for his optimism and resilience in the face of adversity, underscoring the importance of standing together as a family in times of need.
As Michael J. Fox continues to inspire with his courage and determination in the face of Parkinson’s disease, his message of gratitude towards his family serves as a poignant reminder of the power of unconditional love and support in overcoming life’s challenges. With his family by his side, Fox remains unwavering in his commitment to raising awareness and funding for Parkinson’s research, embodying resilience and hope in the face of adversity.