After years of Parkinson’s research, Michael J. Fox awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom
Actor, author, and Parkinson’s disease advocate Michael J. Fox was recently honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. The award, presented by President Joe Biden in a White House ceremony, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States.
Fox, best known for his roles in iconic TV shows and movies such as “Family Ties” and “Back to the Future,” was praised for his work with The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (MJFF). The foundation, established in 2000 after Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1991, has become the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to Parkinson’s research.
In his acceptance speech, Fox expressed his gratitude for the honor, stating, “Receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom is humbling, an honor I could never have anticipated. I’m grateful for this recognition, which I share with the patients, families, and researchers who have brought us closer than ever to ending Parkinson’s disease once and for all.”
MJFF has allocated over $2 billion to high-impact global research programs aimed at accelerating treatments and finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease. The foundation recently made a breakthrough discovery of a Parkinson’s biomarker in 2023 and played a key role in the establishment of the National Parkinson’s Project in 2024, the first-ever federal initiative to accelerate research and improve patient care.
Parkinson’s disease is now the second most common and fastest-growing neurological disease worldwide, with more than one million Americans and 110,000 U.S. military veterans estimated to be living with the disease today. As these numbers continue to rise, studies project that Parkinson’s cases will double globally by 2040.
In addition to Fox, 18 other individuals were honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, including notable figures such as Jose Andres, Bono, Jane Goodall, Magic Johnson, Denzel Washington, and more. The award recognizes their exemplary contributions to various fields and endeavors.
The recognition of Michael J. Fox’s work in Parkinson’s disease research and advocacy highlights the importance of raising awareness and funding for neurological disorders. Through his foundation and tireless efforts, Fox continues to make a significant impact in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.
