20 Fox Focus | In the Spotlight
Michael J. Fox:
“ Parkinson’ s is a solvable problem, but only if we act decisively and urgently.”
By Lauren Biscaldi
ON JANUARY 4, 2025, Michael J. Fox traveled to Washington, D. C. to receive the nation’ s highest civilian honor: the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Michael was among 19 awardees across civil rights, philanthropy, arts and entertainment who received the once-in-alifetime honor. In typical fashion, he deflected credit for the award directly back to the patients, families and researchers who work hand in hand with the Foundation to cure Parkinson’ s.
In an op-ed published in USA Today, Michael used the immense moment of recognition to urge elected leaders to“ do everything in their power to end Parkinson’ s once and for all.” Michael continued by highlighting several key takeaways for our elected leaders, including:
Parkinson’ s is a growing public health challenge. The annual cost of Parkinson’ s is staggering, and is expected to surpass $ 79 billion within 12 years. This is a health and economic challenge.
Public-private partnerships can make all the difference. Collaboration among state and federal governments, academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies— as well as patient advocacy groups— will be the key to progress.
A unified government approach is critical. Currently, PD research is fragmented across multiple government agencies, hindering efficiency. A“ whole-of-government” approach could fix this by streamlining funding and research efforts.
Research breakthroughs offer hope. Recent advances have led to an increased understanding of the biology underlying PD. This is a watershed moment for the field, and we must leverage this momentum.
“ Elected officials pledge to make our lives better,” Michael wrote.“ This is a chance to make good on that promise. To the federal government, I say: I’ m humbled and grateful to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom. But the best prize I could receive would be your steadfast partnership, leadership and conviction to make 2025 the year we commit to ending Parkinson’ s disease.”