How Michael J. Fox Stays Positive While Living With Parkinson's Disease: 'Pity Is a Benign Form of Abuse'

etonline.com:

Michael J. Fox does not have time to feel sorry for himself. During a screening for his documentary,, at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival earlier this week, the 61-year-old actor opened up during a Q&A about being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1991 and going public with his diagnosis in 1998.When asked how he was able to draw such awareness to the disease, Fox said (per multiple new outlets), «I didn't have a choice.

This is it. I have to give everything I have, and it's not lip service. I show up and do the best I can.»According to the Mayo Clinic, «Parkinson's disease is a progressive disorder that affects the nervous system and the parts of the body controlled by the nerves.»Fox added of his condition, «Pity is a benign form of abuse.

I can feel sorry for myself, but I don't have time for that. There is stuff to be learned from this, so let's do that and move on.»During the Q&A, the star was joined by the documentary's director, Davis Guggenheim, and he spoke about why he decided to make this film. «My fans have basically given me my life,» Fox shared. «I wanted to give these people who have done so much for me my time and gratitude.

It was great for me to hear from all of you.»The actor told Guggenheim, «Parkinson's sucks, but it's a great life, so thank you for it.»«I have no regrets,» Fox continued.As for choosing to be a working actor after his diagnosis, he noted, «You do what you have to do, but you do not want to kill yourself.