Michael J. Fox recently shared insights into how publicly sharing his Parkinson’s journey has impacted him and his family. Speaking at the third annual Social Impact Summit, Fox explained his decision to make his diagnosis public and the ongoing challenges it presents, especially for his wife, Tracy Pollan.
Fox, diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 1991 at the age of 29, kept his condition private for seven years. In 1998, he disclosed it during the third season of ‘Spin City.’ He explained how difficult this was for his wife, stating, “It was hell on Tracy, it was really hard on her — and it still is, because it’s always changing.” Fox emphasized the importance of transparency, saying, “I needed to normalize it and just be that all the time.”
After one more season on ‘Spin City,’ Fox retired to focus on advocacy. He founded the Michael J. Fox Foundation in 2000 to support Parkinson’s research. To date, the foundation has raised over $3 billion, contributing significantly to advancements in understanding and treating the disease.
“We’ve committed over three billion dollars worth of research worldwide,” said Co-Founder and CEO Deborah W. Brooks, “working with scientists everywhere.”
Brooks praised Fox for living his life openly, helping to reduce the stigma around Parkinson’s. She recalled his dedication at the foundation’s early meetings, emphasizing his commitment to finding a cure.
“His purity of motive has been core to helping us think how what we’re going to prioritize,” Brooks remarked. She noted the importance of raising awareness and action in philanthropy.
Fox’s decision to go public has inspired many, as Brooks noted, highlighting the emotional impact of Fox’s interactions with other patients.
Despite initially retiring from acting, Fox returned in 2004, appearing on shows like ‘Scrubs,’ ‘The Good Wife,’ and ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm.’ His recent Emmy nomination for ‘Shrinking’ showcased his ongoing contribution to acting.
“It’s really prolonged my life and made my life interesting,” Fox stated about his acting journey.
Recently, Fox and Brooks were honored with the Philanthropic Organization of the Year award at the Social Impact Summit, alongside other notable philanthropists.
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