Spectators at Rideau Hall showed their appreciation for Michael J. Fox as Governor General Louise Arbour officially recognized the renowned actor and Parkinson’s disease advocate by appointing him as a companion of the Order of Canada. Rideau Hall explained that Fox’s promotion to the companion level was in recognition of his impactful global advocacy and candid openness about Parkinson’s disease, a progressive nervous system disorder characterized by tremors, stiffness, slowness, and associated with depression and memory issues.
Having disclosed his Parkinson’s diagnosis in 1998, Fox has been actively involved in fundraising for Parkinson’s research and sharing his personal experiences to shed light on the challenges faced by individuals living with the condition. He was among the 51 individuals appointed to the Order of Canada on that day.
During the ceremony, Arbour commended each recipient for their outstanding contributions, emphasizing their choice to utilize their talents to benefit others rather than solely advancing their personal success. She highlighted the importance of combining talent with the determination to engage and take action to enhance communities and contribute to the greater good. Arbour praised Fox as a shining example of this ethos, emphasizing the need for courage, imagination, and perseverance in driving sustainable progress.
In addition to Fox, other notable honorees included Yusuf Altintas, a mechanical engineering professor at the University of British Columbia, recognized as an officer of the Order of Canada, and Nada Jabado, a McGill University professor honored for her work in pediatric neuro-oncology. Former Bank of Canada governor Stephen Poloz was appointed as an officer for his contributions to Canada’s international trade and economic prosperity.
Renowned sculptor Ruth Elsie Abernethy was inducted as a member for her iconic bronze sculptures exploring themes of gender, heritage, and nation-building. Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist Susanne Craig was also appointed as a member for her exceptional work at The New York Times, The Globe and Mail, and The Wall Street Journal, focusing on contemporary issues in the United States.
Among the other recipients were Colin Roswell Clarke, recognized for founding the Toronto Youth Wind Orchestra program, Marcelle Dubois for her efforts in revitalizing Quebec playwriting, and Patrick Joseph Lahey, co-founder of Triton Submarines, acknowledged for his expertise in submersibles and advocacy for safety practices in deep-diviving.
The ceremony celebrated the diverse contributions of these individuals to various fields and communities, reflecting the spirit of dedication and service honored by the Order of Canada.
