Renowned actor and advocate for Parkinson’s disease, Michael J. Fox, expressed feelings of both “humility” and “pride” during his promotion within the Order of Canada on Friday.
Attendees at Rideau Hall rose to applaud Fox as Gov. Gen. Louise Arbour officially elevated him to the companion level of the prestigious Order.
According to Rideau Hall, Fox’s promotion to the companion level acknowledges his “remarkable global advocacy and unwavering honesty regarding Parkinson’s disease.”
Following the ceremony, Fox shared with The Canadian Press, “It’s a culmination of many experiences. Primarily, it’s about my upbringing in Canada, my affection for this country, and my admiration for how it has evolved, corrected its path when necessary, and remained steadfast when needed.”
He added, “I absorbed all of that while growing up. I appreciate Canadian music and the concept of Canadian content. Ultimately, here I am, a 65-year-old man who embodies the unique essence of being Canadian because of these influences.”
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder affecting the nervous system that manifests through tremors, stiffness, and slowness, often accompanied by depression and memory issues.
Having publicly disclosed his diagnosis of Parkinson’s in 1998, Fox has been instrumental in fundraising for research into the condition and has openly shared his personal experiences with the difficulties faced by those living with its effects.
“Canada was one of the initial testing grounds for deep brain stimulation,” he remarked, highlighting the significant advancements in Parkinson’s research within the country.
Iconic actor Michael J. Fox has been honored with the title of companion of the Order of Canada, the highest distinction within the order. According to the Governor General of Canada’s website, the Order of Canada recognizes individuals who make ‘extraordinary contributions to the nation.’ Fox is also a strong advocate for raising awareness for those affected by Parkinson’s disease. He disclosed his diagnosis in 1998 and is a co-founder of the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
On Friday, he was one of 51 individuals either inducted into or promoted within the Order of Canada.
Arbour noted that each inductee had shown excellence and expressed gratitude for their contributions.
“You could have focused your talents solely on your own advancement. Instead, you opted to utilize your abilities, influence, and energy to assist others,” she stated in French.
“Because talent, no matter how exceptional, is not enough by itself. It also requires the willingness to engage and take action to enhance one’s community and contribute to the greater good.”
Arbour described Fox as a “shining example of this principle.”
“Your example serves as a reminder of a fundamental truth: sustainable progress necessitates that we advance with courage, creativity, and commitment,” she remarked.
“After all, going back to the future has always been a preferable concept than moving forward to the past.”
This remark referred to Fox’s iconic roles in the Back to the Future film trilogy.
Honorees include academics and artists
Yusuf Altintas, a mechanical engineering professor at the University of British Columbia, was appointed as an officer of the Order of Canada, alongside Nada Jabado, a McGill University professor recognized for her contributions to pediatric neuro-oncology.
Stephen Poloz, former governor of the Bank of Canada, was also appointed as an officer for his role in facilitating Canada’s international trade and enhancing its economic welfare.
Sculptor Ruth Elsie Abernethy received membership in the Order. Rideau Hall noted that she has produced iconic life-sized bronze sculptures exhibited globally, exploring themes of gender, heritage, and nation-building.
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Susanne Craig from the New York Times was invested as a member of the Order of Canada on Friday. (Patrick Doyle/The Canadian Press)
Award-winning investigative journalist Susanne Craig was honored as a member for her work with The New York Times, The Globe and Mail, and The Wall Street Journal.
Rideau Hall praised her as one of the most distinguished journalists of her generation, acknowledging her coverage of contemporary American issues.
Colin Roswell Clarke was also recognized as a member for founding and directing the Toronto Youth Wind Orchestra program. Marcelle Dubois received membership for her efforts in revitalizing Quebec’s playwriting scene.
Patrick Joseph Lahey, co-founder of Triton Submarines, was inducted as a member due to his status as a leading expert on submersibles and an advocate for safe practices in the deep-diving sector, according to Rideau Hall.