Michael J. Fox promoted to Companion of the Order of Canada

Actor and activist Michael J. Fox has been promoted to the rank of Companion of the Order of Canada, the nation’s highest civilian honor. The investiture ceremony took place at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, presided over by Governor General Louise Arbour.

The distinction recognizes Fox’s “powerful global advocacy and unflinching honesty about Parkinson’s.” Since his diagnosis in 1991, Fox has been a prominent figure in raising awareness and funding for the disease. Through the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, he has helped raise more than $2.5 billion to $3 billion toward research and treatment.

During the ceremony, Governor General Arbour described Fox as “a shining example” of using one’s talents to serve the common good. Fox, who was born in Edmonton, expressed feelings of pride and humility regarding the promotion.