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Michael J. Fox Stays Strong for His Family Despite Ongoing Battle With Parkinson’s Disease
On April 8, the red carpet at the 31st Annual Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Brooklyn, NY was flooded with famous faces. So it’s no surprise that Michael J. Fox fit right in among the ranks of Tom Hanks and Michael Douglas as he flashed his trademark grin while greeting friends and fans.
“He looked great,” an eyewitness tells Closer. “Michael was laughing and posing for pictures. He seemed to be genuinely having a good time.”
Michael with his family in 2004.
Of course, nights out like this are rare for the Back to the Future star, 54, who has been battling Parkinson’s disease for the past 25 years. When he first received the devastating diagnosis at the age of 29 — “I had a twitch in my pinkie, and the doctor said, ‘You have Parkinson’s disease,’” he recalls — he was warned that a rapid progression was likely. (His physician predicted that he’d only be able to work for another 10 years.)
“The fact that he’s still getting around is miraculous and inspiring,” an insider tells Closer. While Michael’s toughest days are still ahead, the Canada native is staying strong for his family: wife Tracy Pollan, 55, and their four children, Sam, 26, twin daughters Aquinnah and Schuyler, 21, and Esmé, 14. Says the insider, “It’s just amazing the fight he has in him — the spirit and never-give-in attitude.”
To read the full story on Michael J. Fox, pick up the new issue of Closer Weekly, on newsstands now!
