Actor and advocate Michael J. Fox promoted to companion level in Order of Canada

Actor and Parkinson's disease advocate Michael J. Fox is set to receive a promotion within the Order of Canada at a ceremony at Rideau Hall on Friday. Fox, who is already a member of the prestigious order, will be elevated to the rank of companion in a ceremony presided over by Governor General Louise Arbour. The honour recognizes Fox's significant global advocacy efforts and his candid disclosures about living with Parkinson's, a progressive nervous system disorder that causes tremors, stiffness, slowness, depression, and memory issues.

Over the years, Fox has raised an impressive $2.5 billion for Parkinson's research and has been open about the challenges faced by those living with the condition. He will join 51 other individuals who will either be inducted into or promoted within the Order of Canada during today's ceremony.