Michael J. Fox’s wife Tracy Pollan has revealed how their four children have grown as a result of their father’s Parkinson’s disease.
The actor, 64, was diagnosed with the disease at just 29 years old in 1991, early into his marriage with Pollan. The couple share son Sam, 36, daughters daughters Aquinnah and Schuyler, 30, and daughter Esmé, 24.
In a recent interview with Page Six at the A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Cure Parkinson’s Gala, the family made a rare red carpet appearance together, and Pollan opened up on how the actor’s condition has made their children more empathetic.
“I do think that growing up with a parent who has a health challenge, it just brings out an empathy and a protection naturally, and they’ve always been like that,” she said.
The actor also praised his family in an interview with People at the event.
“They’re so supportive and so great,” he said.
“All these people are friends of mine, family, and it’s really great to see them, and I walk on the red carpet surprised to see them, and I think, ‘Well, why should I be surprised?’
“They’ve always been there for me, and they continue to be for me, year after year,” the proud father said.
Pollan also added that their children are all “just incredibly supportive” of him.
“Michael is so optimistic, which is wonderful and really helps him, but it’s really important to also understand that this is a huge challenge,” she told People.
“It’s very difficult for the family, for the caregivers and, obviously, for the patient. So it’s important to acknowledge that and acknowledge that it’s not just all sort of easy. It’s not easy. It’s hard for them, but they show up and they’re there for us.”
The charity gala for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, was held at Cipriani South Street at Casa Cipriani. The event was hosted by Denis Leary, with guests including Christina Geist, Katie Couric, and Meg Ryan.
The Michael J. Fox Foundation has invested $2.5 billion in research for the incurable disease.
The actor took to Instagram to share a highlight reel of the night, thanking all the attendees and guest stars.
“I’m so grateful to everyone who has made #FoxGala one of the best nights in philanthropy for 25 years. It’s humbling. With your support, we’re not slowing down. Together, we’re making real progress on ending Parkinson’s for good,” he wrote in the caption.
Images: Instagram
