Actor Michael J. Fox was "stunned" to learn Robin Williams battled Parkinson's disease.
Fox tweeted his response today after Williams' wife, Susan Schneider, released a statement saying her husband was in the early stages of Parkinson's disease. Williams, 63, was found dead in his California home on Monday.
"Robin's sobriety was intact and he was brave as he struggled with his own battles of depression, anxiety as well as early stages of Parkinson's Disease, which he was not yet ready to share publicly," read the statement from Schneider. "It is our hope in the wake of Robin’s tragic passing, that others will find the strength to seek the care and support they need to treat whatever battles they are facing so they may feel less afraid."
Stunned to learn Robin had PD. Pretty sure his support for our Fdn predated his diagnosis. A true friend; I wish him peace.
— Michael J. Fox (@realmikefox) August 14, 2014
Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 1991, according to his foundation. He disclosed his condition seven years later.