Michael J. Fox has been living with the challenges of Parkinson’s disease for decades, yet he remains resilient in the face of his ongoing battle. Despite the difficulties he faces, the beloved actor continues to be a strong advocate for research and awareness surrounding the disease that has impacted his life since the early 1990s.
The Back to the Future star, who officially retired from acting in 2021 due to his declining health, has long been the public face of Parkinson’s. Over the years, Fox has been open about his struggles, but his optimism has always shone through. Recently, however, he has spoken more candidly about his health, admitting that his condition is worsening and that he doesn’t expect to live to the age of 80.
In a recent interview with CBS Sunday Morning anchor Jane Pauley, Fox spoke about the increasing difficulties of living with Parkinson’s, stating, “I’m not gonna lie. It’s gettin’ hard, it’s gettin’ harder. It’s gettin’ tougher. Every day it’s tougher. But that’s the way it is.”
The actor also revealed he had undergone spinal surgery after a benign tumor was discovered on his spine, which affected his ability to walk. The aftermath of the surgery led to several serious injuries, including broken arms, an elbow, and even his face, all due to falls. Reflecting on these experiences, Fox remarked, “You don’t die from Parkinson’s. You die with Parkinson’s… I’ve been thinking about the mortality of it. I’m not gonna be 80.”
Fox’s long journey with Parkinson’s, which began with a tremor in his pinkie finger in 1991, will be highlighted in his upcoming documentary, Still, which delves into his life over the past three decades. In the film, Fox openly discusses the pain associated with his condition, describing his tremors as “seismic jolts.” He further elaborated on this in an interview with The Times, saying, “It’s not so much pain from the movement, but from the not moving… in that freezing, the not-movement becomes infused with energy and it becomes this burning, impending thing that never happens.”
He humorously added, “I don’t want to get the violins out. I’ve broken my hand, my elbow, my humerus, my shoulder, my face, and some other stuff too. And all that is amplified by the electricity of the tremors. So yes, it hurts a lot. But what you learn is that nobody gives a s—. It’s just life. You suck it up and move on.”
Despite these hardships, Fox remains determined to stay positive. He acknowledged the pain and struggles but insisted that he is not going anywhere. “The depression is [not] so deep that I’m going to injure myself… there’s more to celebrate in my life than there is to mourn. The pain speaks for itself. You either tolerate it or you don’t. And I’m not going anywhere,” he affirmed.
Fox’s courage and perseverance in the face of adversity are inspiring, and his story continues to touch the hearts of many. His new documentary is set to further illuminate his journey, offering an intimate look into his life and his resilience.
Watch the trailer for Still below (or click here).
Michael J. Fox’s bravery and positive outlook are truly remarkable. His unwavering spirit continues to remind us that even in the face of life’s toughest challenges, there is always more to celebrate than to mourn.
What do you think of Michael J. Fox’s journey? Share your thoughts in the comments and join us in sending him our best wishes for the future.
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