Celebrated actor and Parkinson’s disease advocate Michael J. Fox expressed feelings of “pride” and “humility” upon receiving a promotion within the Order of Canada on Friday. Spectators at Rideau Hall cheered and applauded Fox as Gov. Gen. Louise Arbour officially conferred upon him the companion level of the Order of Canada.
According to Rideau Hall, Fox was elevated to the companion level in recognition of his impactful global advocacy and unwavering honesty about Parkinson’s disease. Reflecting on the ceremony, Fox shared with The Canadian Press his deep affection for Canada, its values, progress, and cultural contributions that shaped his identity as a Canadian.
Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative nervous system condition characterized by tremors, stiffness, and slowness, often accompanied by depression and memory issues. Since publicly disclosing his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 1998, Fox has been instrumental in fundraising for Parkinson’s research and sharing candid insights on the challenges faced by individuals living with the disease.
In his remarks, Fox highlighted Canada’s significant role in Parkinson’s research advancements, particularly in the development of deep brain stimulation. He was among 51 individuals honored with an induction or promotion within the Order of Canada on the same day.
Gov. Gen. Arbour commended each honoree for their excellence and dedication to serving others rather than just pursuing personal success. She emphasized the importance of using talents and influence to benefit the community and contribute to the greater good. Arbour praised Fox as a shining example of this ethos, noting his courage and determination in advocating for sustainable progress.
Arbour’s allusion to Fox’s iconic roles in the “Back to the Future” movie trilogy resonated with attendees, underscoring the actor’s enduring impact on popular culture. The ceremony also recognized other notable individuals, such as mechanical engineering professor Yusuf Altintas and pediatric neuro-oncology specialist Nada Jabado, among others, for their outstanding contributions in their respective fields.
