I wrote this article for the Phoenix, published on November 10, 2006...
Admiration for Michael J. Fox, the Person
This isn’t a column about politics or stem-cell research. It is about Michael J. Fox, the man.
Regardless of one’s political beliefs, you gotta give Michael J. Fox so much credit. The famous
actor, who happens to suffer from Parkinson’s disease, is an advocate for stem-cell research. He
believes a cure for afflictions like Parkinson’s can be found in such research. He has been very
visible during the recent political campaign and elections.
Despite allegations that he was “faking” or “exaggerating” his symptoms on television
commercials, Mr. Fox handled the situation with grace, displaying courage and determination,
and ignoring the ignorant
.
It is ridiculous to suggest that his symptoms – noticeable tremors, shaking, and slurred speech -
aren’t real. Does anyone really want to have such symptoms, let alone make them worse?
He knows his condition is getting worse. Parkinson’s is a progressive disease with no cure. He
knows he will not get better. In time, he will probably lose his ability to walk, to care for himself,
and even speak.
He knows he will eventually die, as we all must someday.
What I admire about Mr. Fox is his passion for what he believes in, and his fearlessness to voice
his opinion. For an actor, always in the public eye, he had to constantly look his best, keep up
that persona of being young and healthy - Hollywood.
So it had to be difficult to allow the public to see him as he is now - in a failing physical
condition. But his wit, spirit and determination have only been made stronger by his current
challenges.
It also can’t be easy to go from someone so vibrant and healthy, with fame and fortune, and now
be forced to realize that we are all mortal, and that one’s health is truly far more important in life.
Mr. Fox wanted us to see his symptoms as they are. Not easy for him, not easy for us. But as he
stated, “I think some people feel I shouldn’t speak to you (a group of supporters) with my
symptoms. They may feel I should just go away and hide. But I’m not going anywhere.”
It’s important to note that Mr. Fox has endorsed candidates from both parties, now and in the
past. His is not a political agenda. His purpose is to offer hope to countless people who need a
voice to speak on their behalf.
So many times in the disability world we are told to “just go away.” I can relate to his feelings.
Mr. Fox has the power to be heard and voice his opinions. Many disabled people do not have that
chance. We truly are told to “just go away.”
So, when someone in the public limelight shows such bravery while coping with such a
challenge, we sit up and take notice. And we wish we could do the same
One may not believe in the research which Mr. Fox advocates. But one cannot help but admire
his courage in having the guts to try and do something about a cause he believes in deeply.
There may come a time in the future when he can’t express his opinions - literally. Until that
time ever does arrive – and hopefully not for a very long time - my wish is that we continue to
listen to people like Mr. Fox. He challenges us to confront our fears and deal with the emotions
and challenges in front of us
.
I always admired his acting work on shows like “Family Ties” and movies such as “Back To The
Future.” His honesty and humor in his memoir book, “Lucky Man,” inspired me to write my own
story. But now I admire him more than ever - as a person
NOTE: I have included a recent interview with Michael j. Fox in AARP magazine. Eleven year later, he is still doing well, battling his Parkinsons and helping others. He is still a great man.
http://www.aarp.org/entertainment/style-trends/info-2017/michael-j-fox-aarp-magazine.html
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