What Is the Michael J. Fox Foundation and What Does It Do?

When people think of Parkinson’s disease, one name often comes to mind: Michael J. Fox. Since his diagnosis in 1991, the beloved actor has turned his personal battle with Parkinson’s into a global mission to find a cure. The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research (MJFF) has become the world’s largest nonprofit funder of Parkinson’s research — accelerating science, empowering patients, and bringing hope to millions.
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Here’s why you’ll want to keep reading: MJFF is doing far more than funding research — it’s transforming the way we understand, diagnose, and treat Parkinson’s disease. And while national organizations like MJFF drive scientific breakthroughs, local organizations like the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) are the ones helping people live well today.

What Does the Michael J. Fox Foundation Do?
Founded in 2000, the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s mission is simple but powerful: to find a cure for Parkinson’s disease and ensure improved therapies for those living with it now. The foundation takes a bold, results-driven approach — funding high-impact research, pushing for faster clinical trials, and fostering collaboration between scientists, biotech companies, and patients.

To date, MJFF has funded over $2 billion in Parkinson’s research, making it the largest private funder of PD science in the world. The foundation focuses on key areas such as:

• Early detection and biomarkers to diagnose Parkinson’s before symptoms appear.
• Next-generation therapies to slow or stop disease progression.
• Patient-driven research that gathers real-world data from people living with Parkinson’s.
• Public policy advocacy to increase research funding and support better care.

​Their landmark initiative, the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI), is transforming how researchers track and understand PD — paving the way for earlier detection and targeted treatments.

Why Local Support Still Matters
While MJFF leads groundbreaking research globally, local organizations like PASWFL provide the vital day-to-day programs and emotional support that make living with Parkinson’s possible. Research gives us hope for the future, but community gives us strength for today.
The Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida (PASWFL) complements the mission of MJFF by ensuring that individuals in our region have access to the free programs, exercise classes, and education they need to live well today.

Why Support Matters
A diagnosis of any form of Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming. But with the right support and resources, individuals can maintain independence, quality of life, and emotional well-being.
For resources, referrals, and support in navigating Parkinson’s and related conditions, contact the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida at www.paswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.
For over 25 years, PASWFL has provided free, high-quality services and programs to individuals and families touched by Parkinson’s disease in Southwest Florida.

Each week, PASWFL offers more than 25 free programs, including:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech exercise classes
• Educational seminars
• Support groups for individuals and care partners

There are no fees to become a member, and PASWFL welcomes anyone touched by PD.
👉 Sign up for the PASWFL newsletter
👉 Become a member – it’s free and confidential
To learn more, visit www.paswfl.org and discover the power of support, education, and community.