Michael J. Fox shares inspiring update despite ‘tough year’

Back to the Future star Michael J. Fox has offered a positive update on his health journey, reflecting on the challenges of the past year while drawing comfort from the abundance of positivity in his life.

After being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1991, Fox revealed his condition to the public in 1998. Ever since, he has devoted a significant portion of his life to researching the disease, donating millions of dollars towards its eradication and working to reduce the stigma associated with it.

Speaking at the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s event, Country Thing Happened on the Way to Cure Parkinson’s on Tuesday, April 2, Fox expressed optimism for the future despite physical challenges he faced throughout the year.

“You know, my daughter’s getting married too … good things are happening, and life is good. And so it’s been a good year, for sure,” he told People Magazine.

Amidst all the positive experiences, Fox also recognised the challenges he has faced, contemplating the rigorous demands of projects and various commitments.

“There’s been a lot of challenges,” he explained.

“A lot of physical challenges these days have been different bits, but just that I had a lot of stuff … I had a movie, a documentary and a lot of obligations.

“A lot of things have been a lot of effort … And so it was a tough year, but a good year, in each of the challenges [that] came up.”

Attributing his resilience to the unwavering support of his wife, Tracy Pollan, and his family, along with his dedicated team, Fox highlighted the importance of their encouragement in overcoming recent challenges.

“With the help of family, with the help of people that I work with, I’ve been able to meet those challenges and go beyond them and do new things,” Fox said.

“And the whole thing is just keep having new experiences, whether it’s experiences that push forward, what we’re trying to do and our mission with foundation.”

Fox has long maintained a positive approach to his condition, explaining that he relies on gratitude to see him through.

“I recognise how hard this is for people, and I recognise how hard it is for me, but I have a certain set of skills that allow me to deal with this stuff,” he explained during a previous appearance on CBS Sunday Morning.

“And I realise, with gratitude, optimism is sustainable.

“If you can find something to be grateful for, then you can find something to look forward to, and you carry on.