Celebrated actor and advocate for Parkinson’s disease, Michael J. Fox expressed feelings of “pride” and “humility” upon being honored with a promotion within the Order of Canada. During a ceremony at Rideau Hall, Gov. Gen. Louise Arbour officially bestowed Fox with the companion level title in recognition of his impactful global advocacy and candid discussions about Parkinson’s disease.
Reflecting on the ceremony, Fox shared, “It’s a mix of emotions. Primarily, it stems from my upbringing in Canada, my love for this country, its values, and its journey of progress and resilience.” He emphasized his Canadian roots, citing a deep appreciation for Canadian music and cultural influence, shaping his identity as a 65-year-old uniquely Canadian individual.
Parkinson’s disease, a degenerative nervous system condition characterized by tremors and stiffness, has been a focal point in Fox’s life since he disclosed his diagnosis in 1998. Through fundraising efforts and sharing personal experiences, he has been a prominent voice in raising awareness and supporting research initiatives for the disease.
Fox highlighted Canada’s pivotal role in Parkinson’s research advancements, noting the country’s early adoption of deep brain stimulation techniques. His promotion to the companion level of the Order of Canada marked a significant moment, with 51 individuals being inducted or promoted on the same day.
Gov. Gen. Arbour commended each honoree for their dedication and contributions, emphasizing the importance of using one’s talents to benefit others and the community. She lauded Fox as a shining example of utilizing talent and influence to drive positive change, underscoring the necessity of courage and determination in fostering sustainable progress.
The ceremony also recognized other notable individuals, including academic achievers and artists, such as mechanical engineering professor Yusuf Altintas, pediatric neuro-oncology expert Nada Jabado, former Bank of Canada governor Stephen Poloz, and sculptor Ruth Elsie Abernethy. Additionally, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Susanne Craig, Toronto Youth Wind Orchestra program founder Colin Roswell Clarke, and deep-diving industry expert Patrick Joseph Lahey were among those honored for their exceptional contributions to their respective fields.