Michael J. Fox receives Presidential Medal of Freedom for his research on Parkinson's disease.
In 1991, Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson's, and in 2000, he established the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.
Michael J. Fox, an actor, author, and advocate, has received the country's top civilian award.
On January 4th, Michael J. Fox was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his work in research for Parkinson's disease through The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research (MJFF).
In a White House ceremony, President Biden bestowed a medal on individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public, or private endeavors, as stated in a press release.
Michael J. Fox, a cherished actor, introduced iconic characters to American culture through his witty and charming performances as Alex P. Keaton and Marty McFly, among others.
"He fearlessly advocates for those with Parkinson's disease, warms hearts and captivates audiences with his undaunted resilience and optimism, and his endearing personality moves us closer to a cure, reminding us of the power of American possibilities."
The White House recognized Fox for winning multiple awards, including five Emmy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, and a Grammy Award, in addition to being a "world-renowned advocate for Parkinson’s disease research and development."
"Receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom is humbling, an honor I could never have anticipated."
In a press release statement from MJFF, Fox stated that receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom was humbling and an unexpected honor.
"I am thankful for this recognition, which I share with the patients, families, and researchers who have helped us get closer than ever to ending Parkinson's disease permanently."
According to MJFF, since its launch in 2000, Fox's organization has become the world's largest nonprofit for Parkinson's research.
Fox was diagnosed with the progressive brain disorder in 1991.
The allocation of more than $2 billion by MJFF to "high-impact global research programs" aims to accelerate the development of treatments and a cure.
In 2023, the foundation made a breakthrough discovery of a Parkinson's biomarker, and in 2024, the National Parkinson's Project was established as a federal initiative to speed up research and enhance patient care.
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According to MJFF, Parkinson's disease is now the second most prevalent and rapidly expanding neurological condition globally.
Approximately 1.1 million Americans, including 110,000 U.S. military veterans, are believed to be living with the disease currently.
By 2040, the number of Parkinson's cases worldwide is predicted to double due to rising numbers.
Besides Fox, 18 other Presidential Medal of Freedom honorees were present, including Jose Andres, Bono, Ash Carter, Hillary Clinton, Tim Gill, Jane Goodall, Fannie Lou Hamer, Earvin "Magic" Johnson, Robert Francis Kennedy, Ralph Lauren, Lionel Messi, Bill Nye, George Romney, David Rubenstein, George Soros, George Stevens, Jr., Denzel Washington, and Anna Wintour.
Planet Chronicle Digital's Ashley Hume contributed to this report.
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