Celebrated actor and advocate for Parkinson’s disease, Michael J. Fox expressed a mix of “pride” and “humility” upon his promotion within the Order of Canada during a ceremony at Rideau Hall. Amidst applause from onlookers, Governor General Louise Arbour officially recognized Fox as a companion of the Order of Canada in acknowledgment of his impactful global advocacy and unwavering openness about Parkinson’s disease.
Reflecting on the honor, Fox shared his deep-rooted connection to Canada, its values, and his admiration for the country’s progress and resilience. He emphasized his Canadian upbringing, love for Canadian music, and appreciation for the nation’s cultural contributions, shaping his identity as a uniquely Canadian individual.
Parkinson’s disease, a degenerative nervous system condition characterized by tremors and mobility issues, has been a focal point in Fox’s life since publicly disclosing his diagnosis in 1998. Through fundraising efforts and candid discussions on the challenges faced by those living with Parkinson’s, Fox has been a prominent figure in raising awareness and supporting research initiatives for the disease.
Highlighting Canada’s advancements in Parkinson’s research, Fox credited the country as a pioneering ground for innovative treatments like deep brain stimulation. The ceremony saw Fox join a cohort of 51 individuals newly inducted or promoted within the Order of Canada, each recognized for their outstanding contributions to various fields.
Governor General Arbour commended the honorees for choosing to utilize their talents and influence to benefit others and enhance their communities. She praised Fox as a shining example of selfless dedication and emphasized the importance of courage, creativity, and perseverance in driving sustainable progress.
The event also celebrated other notable figures, including academic luminaries like Yusuf Altintas and Nada Jabado, former Bank of Canada governor Stephen Poloz, sculptor Ruth Elsie Abernethy, investigative journalist Susanne Craig, Colin Roswell Clarke, Marcelle Dubois, and Patrick Joseph Lahey, among others, for their remarkable contributions to their respective fields.
