Amidst the glitz and glamour of the A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Cure Parkinson’s gala in New York City, Michael J. Fox and Tracy Pollan were a striking duo, emanating warmth and ease that could only come from years of shared laughter. The secret to their lasting marriage? Pollan, at 65, shared a simple yet profound piece of advice she and Fox, at 64, passed down to their eldest son, Sam Fox, before his own wedding to Molly Milstein. “Find something to laugh about together every day, if you can,” Pollan revealed. And with 37 years of marriage and four children under their belt, it’s safe to say their formula is working flawlessly.
Having first met on the set of Family Ties in 1985, Pollan and Fox tied the knot three years later, embarking on a journey that has weathered life’s toughest storms, including Fox’s Parkinson’s diagnosis in 1991. Reflecting on the unwavering support he received from Pollan during that trying time, Fox shared, “One of the things I’ll always love Tracy for is that at that moment [of my diagnosis], she didn’t blink.” And this steadfast support has been a constant throughout their relationship, with Fox describing Pollan as his best friend and partner, someone he checks in with first and last every day.
As Fox candidly opened up about his battle with self-doubt and drinking in the aftermath of his diagnosis, it became clear that Pollan’s unwavering presence has been a source of strength for him. Despite the initial tailspin, he refused to let Parkinson’s define him and eventually went public with his diagnosis seven years later. This courageous decision led to the establishment of The Michael J. Fox Foundation, a groundbreaking organization that has raised over $2.5 billion for Parkinson’s research.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.