Michael J. Fox Discusses Parkinson's Impact on Mental Health, Credits Wife's Support in Recent Interviews
Fox shares his ongoing struggle with depression due to Parkinson's, praises wife Tracy Pollan for unwavering support, and highlights the significant progress made by his foundation in Parkinson's research.
- Michael J. Fox, diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1991, has been candid about his ongoing struggle with depression and the mental health impacts of the disease, emphasizing that his positivity is hard-fought and hard-won.
- Fox credits his wife, Tracy Pollan, for her unwavering support throughout his journey with Parkinson's, stating that he would have understood if she had chosen to leave due to the challenges of the disease.
- In 2000, Fox established the Michael J. Fox Foundation, which has since raised over $2 billion for Parkinson's research, aiming to give a voice to those affected by the disease who lack resources and representation.
- The foundation led a landmark clinical study that discovered a protein in spinal fluid that can detect Parkinson's years before symptoms appear, marking a significant breakthrough in the understanding and potential treatment of the disease.
- Despite the physical and mental challenges of Parkinson's, Fox maintains an optimistic outlook, stating that he does not fear the disease or death, and even refers to Parkinson's as a 'gift' that has positively changed his life in many ways.