A well-known Canadian actor diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease at age 31. Fox began acting as a teen and is best known for his starring roles in several popular television situation comedies including NBC’s Family Ties (1982-89) and ABC’s Spin City (1996-2000), the last two seasons of which were filmed after Fox publicly announced his Parkinson’s diagnosis. Fox also starred in a number of movies including the successful Back to the Future comedies and the drama Bright Lights, Big City.
Although Fox concealed his diagnosis from the public for eight years, since going public he has become one of the most visible and outspoken advocates for research supporting the search for a cure. His appearance before the U.S. Congress to testify in support of increased funding for Parkinson’s research was dramatic as he presented himself during an off-state to demonstrate the full effects of the disease for legislators. He has made similar appearances in television interviews.
Fox started the michael j. fox foundation for Parkinson’s research in 2000 to raise public awareness of Parkinson’s disease and money for research. The organization’s website, www.michaeljfox.org, provides information about Parkinson’s disease, clinical research studies that are recruiting participants or are under way, results of completed studies, innovative treatment approaches, and more information about Fox himself.
