Celebrated actor and advocate for Parkinson’s disease, Michael J. Fox, expressed a mix of “pride” and “humility” as he was honored with a promotion within the Order of Canada on Friday. The audience at Rideau Hall gave Fox a standing ovation as Governor General Louise Arbour officially bestowed upon him the title of companion within the Order of Canada.
According to Rideau Hall, Fox was elevated to the companion level in recognition of his impactful global advocacy and unwavering openness about Parkinson’s disease. Reflecting on the ceremony, Fox shared with The Canadian Press, “It’s a myriad of emotions. Primarily, it’s about my upbringing in Canada, my love for this nation, its values, progress, and resilience in times of need.”
The actor continued, “I absorbed all of this growing up. I have a deep affection for Canadian music, the essence of Canadian culture. Ultimately, I am a 65-year-old individual who embodies Canadian values due to these influences.”
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by tremors, stiffness, and slow movement, often accompanied by depression and memory issues. Since publicly disclosing his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 1998, Fox has been actively involved in fundraising for research on the disease and has candidly shared his experiences dealing with its symptoms.
Fox acknowledged Canada’s pivotal role in Parkinson’s research, particularly highlighting advancements in deep brain stimulation. He was among 51 individuals recognized with induction or promotion within the Order of Canada on the same day.
Governor General Arbour commended each honoree for their outstanding contributions, emphasizing their choice to utilize their talents for the greater good. She praised Fox as a shining example of dedication to community improvement and emphasized the importance of courage, creativity, and perseverance in driving sustainable progress.
Arbour made a playful reference to Fox’s famous roles in the “Back to the Future” movie series, stating, “After all, back to the future has always been a much better idea than forward to the past.”
In addition to Fox, other notable individuals honored included Yusuf Altintas, a mechanical engineering professor at the University of British Columbia, and Nada Jabado, a McGill University professor recognized for her work in pediatric neuro-oncology. Former Bank of Canada governor Stephen Poloz was acknowledged for his contributions to international trade and economic well-being.
Renowned sculptor Ruth Elsie Abernethy was inducted as a member for her impactful bronze sculptures exploring themes of gender, heritage, and nation-building. Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist Susanne Craig was honored for her exceptional work with prominent media outlets, lauded for her coverage of contemporary issues in the United States.
The diverse group of inductees also included individuals recognized for their contributions in various fields, such as arts, education, and industry. Each honoree was celebrated for their dedication to excellence and service to their communities.