Michael J. Fox has truly embraced the power of positivity throughout his thirty-year journey with Parkinson’s disease. This is a strength he attributes to his mother, Phyllis, who, sadly, passed away in September at the age of 92.
Fox recalls, “My mum had a long and fulfilling life. She was the kindest woman; everyone respected her. She always treated people fairly and couldn’t help but fill the room with laughter.”
In 1991, at just 29 years old, Fox shared with his mother his Parkinson’s diagnosis, a moment filled with nervousness for Phyllis.
At that time, Fox was simultaneously thriving in his career, acting in both TV shows and films, all while building a family. Having married actress Tracy Pollan in 1988, they welcomed their son Sam in 1989. Later, they welcomed twin daughters, Aquinnah and Schuyler, in 1995, and their youngest, Esmé, in 2001.
Fox’s philosophy in facing life’s challenges was straightforward — “Just go forward.” He never wasted time tallying setbacks, much like Phyllis, who always focused on the positives.
Reflecting on his resilience, Fox traces his strength back to his upbringing with his supportive parents, Phyllis and William, the latter having passed in 1990. Growing up in a military family, with a father who served in the Canadian troops for 25 years, Fox and his four siblings learned early the importance of unity and support, shaped largely by their mother’s steadfast presence.
“Army wives are the masters of adaptation,” Fox explains. “They are skilled at navigating new situations — setting up homes, organizing schooling for the kids, and even taking on jobs to supplement the limited army income. We didn’t appreciate it as kids, but now it’s clear as day.”
Through the Michael J. Fox Foundation, the actor has raised over $1.5 billion for Parkinson’s research, even as he faced personal health hurdles. Over the past year, he’s dealt with a fractured hand, shoulder, right arm, and elbow which tested his resilience.
However, Fox remains hopeful. As his recovery continues, marking the healing of his last few injuries, he shares, “I’m on the mend; my arm feels fantastic. Life is incredibly interesting — this is what it’s all about.”
Fox finds strength in a personal mantra that originated from his challenging recovery after a critical spinal cord surgery in 2018 to remove a tumor.
“If I can find something to be grateful for in any situation, it shifts everything and opens up the possibility of something wonderful to happen,” reflects Fox. “I’m getting back into that positive mindset, and it feels amazing.”