The beloved actor Michael J. Fox continues to bravely face his battle with Parkinson’s disease. Over the past weekend, however, it was all about his daughter, Esmé. At 24, Esmé Fox achieved an impressive milestone by running the New York Marathon, and her proud father celebrated the occasion by sharing a touching and rare photograph of their meeting during the race.
Michael J. Fox has lived with Parkinson’s for many years, having received his diagnosis at the young age of 29. It wasn’t until later, in 1991, that he shared this news with the public. To make a difference for others facing similar struggles, Fox established the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research in 2000. His efforts have since provided invaluable support to countless individuals affected by the illness.
Despite the challenges Parkinson’s disease presents, Fox maintains a positive outlook on life. During a recent conversation with People Magazine, he shared some insights about managing his health.
“Each morning, I try to understand what the day may hold for me, and I adjust accordingly,” Fox explained. “Physical challenges keep arising, but I persevere. I use a wheelchair often now, which took some getting used to.”
“You take the good and seize it,” he added with a smile.
Fox decided to retire from acting back in 2020, but that didn’t last too long before he felt the pull to return. Recently, the Family Ties alumnus released a new book titled “Future Boy” and even guest-starred in the third season of the acclaimed series “Shrinking,” taking on a role reflective of his real-life experiences with Parkinson’s.
Precious Family Moments: Michael Shares a Photo of Esmé
With Parkinson’s reshaping many aspects of his life, Michael J. Fox is ever grateful for the steadfast support of his family. Together with his wife, Tracy Pollan, he has four children: three daughters and one son. Esmé, the youngest, came into the world in November 2001. Her father has often remarked on how similar she is to him.
In an interview recorded in 2013, Fox shared, “Esmé, my youngest, has so much of me in her. She loves to immerse herself in a book, edit films, or dress up. During vacations, she even pens stories about her adventures. Her curiosity and zest mirror my own, despite the hurdles I’ve faced. And I hold onto those traits even now.”
Not one to frequently post personal family photos, Michael J. Fox did make an exception the previous year to mark Esmé’s 23rd birthday. He shared some heartfelt pictures, writing, “Happy birthday to our renaissance gal, Esmé. You excel at so many things. Your Dood loves you fiercely. Keep embracing life’s journey.”
True to form, the Back to the Future star recently delighted fans by sharing another treasured photo of Esmé. As she participated in the New York Marathon on November 3rd, her family—including Michael—was cheering her on from the sidelines.
After the marathon, Fox highlighted a joyous moment from the day in an Instagram post, capturing Esmé’s delighted expression as she spotted and approached her supportive family during the run.
His affectionate post read, “Esme…then…and now – you did it! You astonish us. Huge congratulations! Your dood is incredibly proud, and a happy birthday to you!”
Reflections on Life’s Journey Ahead
Looking ahead, Fox contemplates life’s unpredictability and his own limitations. During a reflective moment, he shared, “There may come a day when I just say, ‘Not today. I don’t have the energy.’ When that time comes, I’ll accept it. At 62, things like that are part of life’s tapestry.”
“If I were to pass tomorrow, it would be untimely but not unprecedented. So, no, I don’t fear it,” he expressed.
