Michael J Fox: Back To The Future star gives ‘hard’ update on battle with Parkinson’s disease

Michael J Fox tries to keep his sense of humour intact while battling Parkinson’s disease but admits it’s not always easy.

The 63-year-old actor was diagnosed with the disease, which causes uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination, in 1991.

Asked about how he copes, he admitted that while it is “hard” for him to laugh, he has to try to find the fun in things.

“It’s hard for me. But I gotta keep it intact,” he told People.

In the years since his diagnosis, the Back to the Future star has established the Michael J Fox Foundation, which is dedicated to finding a cure for Parkinson’s and has gone on to fund $US2 billion ($3.1 billion) worth of research.

At the foundation’s annual gala, stars such as Stevie Nicks arrived to show their support.

“I can’t believe - a lot of these people I’ve known for years and years - they’re so kind to me,” Fox said.

“I think because they see an opportunity for a win, for a big advancement, and that’s what we’re working toward.”

The former Family Ties star married Tracy Pollan in 1989 and they went on to have Sam, 35, twins Aquinnah and Schuyler, 25, as well as Esmé, 23.

He recently admitted his “biggest goal” in life was to have a family and he is open to the idea of acting but is more focused on his campaign work.

“My biggest goal, I think, was to raise a family. We have four amazing kids and that’s been the big thing,” he told Entertainment Tonight.

“And then the other is with the foundation. If someone offers me a part and I do it and I have a good time, great.”