Neurology through history: Influential figures and their battle with Parkinson disease

Parkinson disease, a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor and nonmotor symptoms, affects millions worldwide. Although it presents a formidable challenge, it has not deterred several influential individuals from contributing profoundly to various fields. We celebrate these remarkable figures who, despite battling Parkinson disease, have left an indelible mark on society, offering inspiration and valuable insights to neurologists.

1. Michael J Fox: Born in 1961, the Canadian-American actor is renowned for his roles in Back to the Future and Family Ties. Diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson disease at 29, Fox turned his personal adversity into advocacy. He established the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research in 2000 and continues to inspire millions worldwide through his resilience and optimism. Fox is currently living with the disease.
2. Muhammad Ali: Known as "The Greatest," Ali, born in 1942, was a towering figure in sports and activism. Diagnosed with Parkinson disease in 1984 at age 42, 3 years after he retired from a prolific boxing career, Ali remained a global icon. His battle with Parkinson disease was marked with grace and courage. He advocated for Parkinson disease research and increased public awareness about the disease. Ali passed away in 2016 at the age of 74.
3. Pope John Paul II: Karol Józef Wojtyła, known globally as Pope John Paul II, was born in 1920 in Poland. He served as Pope from 1978 until his death in 2005, making him one of the longest-serving Popes in history. Diagnosed with Parkinson disease in the early 1990s, though it was publicly acknowledged only in 2003, his physical decline was evident in his later years. Despite his illness, he continued his Papal duties until his death at 84.
4. Billy Graham: Born in 1918, Graham was one of the most influential Christian evangelists of the 20th century. He was diagnosed with Parkinson disease in 1992 but continued his evangelistic efforts well into the early 2000s. Known for his powerful sermons, Graham's faith remained unshaken by his diagnosis. He passed away in 2018 at the age of 99.
5. Maurice Ravel: The French composer, famous for his composition Boléro, was born in 1875. Although never formally diagnosed during his lifetime, as Parkinson disease was not well-known in his era, many believe Ravel had the disease because he exhibited symptoms such as a tremor in his right hand and difficulties with movement in his later life. These symptoms interfered with his ability to compose music. Ravel passed away in 1937 at age 62.

These influential figures faced their Parkinson disease diagnoses with dignity and courage, continuing their vocations and advocating for greater public understanding and research into the disease. Each of their stories serves as a testament to human resilience in the face of adversity.

Related MedLink Neurology content:

• BrainWaves #32 Oral therapies for idiopathic Parkinson Disease
• Neuro Podcases: Management of Parkinson's disease
  
• Neuro Podcases: Deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease
  
• Perspectives: Life and Work of Dr. Stanley Fahn
  

MedLink acknowledges the use of GPT-4 in drafting this blog entry.