Michael J Fox is a world-renowned actor who appeared in films such as Back To The Future and the rest of the films in the franchise. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, which is a condition that can see the individual eventually needing support from those who work in Support Worker Jobs Gloucester way to carry out some everyday functions. Throughout his diagnosis, Fox has been honest about his condition and has supported research into the condition.
Michael was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s when he was just 29 years of age, back in 1991. He kept the diagnosis private until 1998, when he decided to help fund further research into the condition. During this time, he continued acting in the series “Spin City”. He took the decision to retire from acting in 2000 after the series filmed its 100th episode.
After retiring from the series, Michael decided to set up the Michael J Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in is the largest non-profit organisation that funds drug development in the world. He has worked for many years as a patient advocate and has talked on many occasions about the challenges that those who live with Parkinson’s can face.
In 2012, Michael entered back into the world of acting and appeared in series such as “The Good Fight” and “The Good Wife”. He has enjoyed reigniting his career over the last ten years.
Other public figures who spoke about Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s is a progressive condition of the brain. Damage to nerves reduces the production of dopamine, a chemical that affects mood and helps regulate movement, which is why mobility and everyday tasks become harder. Fox’s openness has been matched by several other well-known people living with it.
The boxer Muhammad Ali was diagnosed in 1984, only three years after retiring from professional boxing. He went on to raise large sums for research into the condition and for treatments to ease its symptoms, and he set up the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center in Arizona to support people with it. Ali died in 2016.
The comedian and actor Billy Connolly was diagnosed in 2012. He has been vocal about the condition, talking openly about life with it while continuing to work on comedy projects. For Fox, diagnosed in 1991, the first sign was a little finger that kept tapping against a book he was reading and that he could not control.
Practical steps after a Parkinson’s diagnosis
Parkinson’s is a degenerative condition with no cure at present, although a great deal of research is going into treatments and drugs that ease symptoms. A diagnosis is understandably daunting and can take time to process. A close support network of family, friends and medical professionals helps, as most people have many feelings and questions to work through.
Practical tasks can give back a sense of control. Tell your employer, the DVLA and other relevant parties, such as your insurer, about the diagnosis. If the condition affects your ability to work, look into the benefits you may be able to claim.
Looking after yourself matters just as much, and exercise is one of the best ways to do it. As well as keeping the body in good order, regular exercise is thought to be especially helpful for people with Parkinson’s and may help slow the progression of the disease.
