List of people diagnosed with Parkinson's disease

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List of People Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease is a compilation of notable individuals who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, a long-term degenerative disorder of the central nervous system that mainly affects the motor system. The symptoms generally come on slowly over time. Early in the disease, the most obvious are shaking, rigidity, slowness of movement, and difficulty with walking. Thinking and behavioral problems may also occur. Dementia becomes common in the advanced stages of the disease. Depression and anxiety are also common, occurring in more than a third of people with PD. Parkinson's disease typically occurs in people over the age of 60, of whom about one percent are affected.

Notable Individuals

• Muhammad Ali - The world-renowned boxer was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1984, three years after he retired from boxing. Ali's diagnosis brought significant attention to the disease and its effects.

• Michael J. Fox - An actor famous for his role in the Back to the Future trilogy, Fox was diagnosed with young-onset Parkinson's disease in 1991 at the age of 29. He has since become an advocate for Parkinson's disease research and founded the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

• Billy Connolly - The Scottish comedian and actor was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2013. Connolly has spoken openly about his experiences with the disease and its impact on his life.

• Terry-Thomas - The English comedian and actor was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in the late 1970s. He spent the latter part of his life raising awareness and funds for research into the disease.

• Maurice White - The founder of Earth, Wind & Fire, Maurice White, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in the late 1980s and retired from touring in 1994 due to his health.

• Linda Ronstadt - The American singer, songwriter, and producer was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2013, which she announced has left her unable to sing.

• Robin Williams - The actor and comedian was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2014, a diagnosis revealed after his death. It was later determined that he had been misdiagnosed and actually suffered from Lewy body dementia, a condition with Parkinsonian symptoms.

• Neil Diamond - The American singer-songwriter announced his retirement from touring in January 2018 due to his diagnosis of Parkinson's disease.

• Ozzy Osbourne - The British singer, songwriter, and television personality revealed in January 2020 that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Impact and Advocacy

Many of the individuals listed have used their diagnosis to raise awareness about Parkinson's disease, contributing to research and support for those affected by the condition. The Michael J. Fox Foundation, for example, has become a leading organization in funding research for a cure.

See Also

• Parkinson's disease
• Neurodegenerative diseases
• Michael J. Fox Foundation

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