“ You can ’ t if you don ’ t , so do it . That ’ s been our goal and our motto , and it served us well .”
Fall / Winter 2023 | In the Spotlight 11
Leadership through Vulnerability
The Power of Michael J . Fox ’ s Story
By Allison Boiles
Michael J . Fox and MJFF CEO and Co-Founder Debi Brooks , right , shared the stage with former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton after Michael received the Elevate Prize Catalyst Award .
The research breakthroughs of 2023 stand to transform the Parkinson ’ s field forever . These milestones are surges of progress on the path to creating a new world order , one where Parkinson ’ s can be treated , cured and prevented .
Right in the middle of this fantastic year of scientific firsts , STILL : A Michael J . Fox Movie debuted in May to an overwhelming positive response . Patients and families responded to the candor and vulnerability with which Michael retold his Parkinson ’ s journey and brought a renewed appreciation to the realities of living with the disease . Critics alike responded favorably — the film received seven Emmy nominations , the most of any nonfiction body of work ever .
It ’ s been a big year for science , and for Michael ’ s humanitarian work , too . In addition to Hollywood accolades — the Emmy nominations and an honorary Oscar — this September , Michael was honored with the Elevate Prize Catalyst Award . This award , whose past recipients include Malala Yousafzai and Amal and George Clooney , was created to
“ You can ’ t if you don ’ t , so do it . That ’ s been our goal and our motto , and it served us well .”
— Michael J . Fox
recognize prominent individuals who use their influence to inspire social action .
The Elevate Prize Catalyst Award was conferred during the closing session of the 2023 Clinton Global Initiative Meeting . Immediately after receiving the award , Michael and MJFF CEO and Co-Founder , Debi Brooks , were interviewed by former U . S . Secretary of State Hillary Clinton about what inspired the Foundation to never give up on its mission .
“ We have another saying , lots of little catchphrases to keep us going ,” said Michael on stage . “‘ You can ’ t if you don ’ t , so do it .’ That ’ s been our goal and our motto , and it served us well .”