Michael J. Fox, the renowned actor best known for his role in Back to the Future, was recently awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the United States and the world. Fox received the medal not only for his acting career but also for his tireless advocacy and fundraising efforts in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.
Following the ceremony at the White House, Fox expressed his gratitude on Instagram, emphasizing that the recognition signifies the collective struggle of millions living with Parkinson’s and their loved ones. He reiterated his unwavering belief in ultimately eliminating the disease and acknowledged the contributions of everyone involved in this ongoing battle.
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The Presidential Medal of Freedom, as described by the White House, is bestowed upon individuals who have demonstrably advanced the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, contributed to world peace, or engaged in other noteworthy societal endeavors. President Biden commended the recipients as exemplary leaders who embody decency and strive for a better future for all.
Fox, diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1991 and publicly disclosing his diagnosis in 1998, established the Michael J. Fox Foundation two years later to accelerate research towards a cure. To date, the foundation has raised nearly two billion dollars and achieved significant breakthroughs. Notably, in 2023, researchers supported by the foundation identified a biomarker enabling the detection of Parkinson’s even before symptoms manifest.
This groundbreaking discovery, as Fox shared in an interview, represents a monumental step toward early diagnosis and treatment, potentially preventing the disease from fully developing. He expressed profound emotional impact upon learning about this advancement, highlighting its potential to revolutionize Parkinson’s care.
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Reflecting on his decision to publicly reveal his diagnosis in a PEOPLE magazine cover story, Fox acknowledged initial apprehension but ultimately recognized the overwhelmingly positive and supportive response. He expressed pride in his transparency and the significant global impact it generated, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue and the power of collective action in addressing health challenges. He credited PEOPLE magazine for handling the story with sensitivity and recognizing the gravity of the situation, ultimately contributing to raising awareness and accelerating progress in Parkinson’s research.
