Michael J. Fox accepted the second annual Time100 Impact Award. An award that recognizes trailblazers for pushing boundaries in their industries. In his speech accepting the award, Michael said about the state of Parkinson's research, "We now know we are dealing with not just a clinical approach to Parkinson's disease, but a truly biological understanding of its symptoms, progress and clues towards finding a cure sooner than we ever would've hoped for."
Michael was also recognized as one of the honorees on Time Magazine's list of the 100 Most Influential People of 2024. An impressive group filled with actors, activists, government leaders and more who are changing the world. In a piece penned by The Michael J. Fox Foundation Board Member Ryan Reynolds, our intrepid founder, Michael J. Fox, has been recognized for his activism, charisma, talent and endless optimism.
“I know Michael J. Fox. Like, I know him pretty damn well. He’s funny. He’s warm. He’s handsome and intensely smart. He also falls a lot. Not just because he has Parkinson’s. He falls a lot because he’s unafraid to fly.
I met Mike 17 years ago. I’ve watched him raise the bar for purpose and passion. It’d be kinda lazy to simply characterize him as the greatest champion of Parkinson’s research on the planet. He’s someone who helped my dad, along with millions of others, feel less alone. It’d be kinda lazy to simply regard him as a movie star who shaped the lives of people all over the planet with a uniquely electric wit and self-aware charm. He’s the sum of these beautiful parts. And so many more.
Last year I watched Back to the Future with my 8-year-old daughter. It’s become her favorite film. And for now, that’s enough for me—and her. One more kid from one more generation sees what I saw.
I know how lucky I am to call Mike a friend. She still has no idea that I know him. I don’t need to teach my daughter the level of compassion Mike has mastered. Or teach her to tell stories the way Mike tells stories. I need to teach her that it’s OK to fall a lot. It’s the absolute best way to know you’re flying.”