Robin Williams’ Widow Reveals He Had Parkinson’s Disease; Michael J. Fox Calls Williams ‘A True Friend’

Robin Williams’ widow, Susan Schneider, revealed on Thursday that her husband had Parkinson’s disease.

“Robin spent so much of his life helping others. Whether he was entertaining millions on stage, film or television, our troops on the frontlines, or comforting a sick child — Robin wanted us to laugh and to feel less afraid,” Schneider said in a statement on Thursday.

“Since his passing, all of us who loved Robin have found some solace in the tremendous outpouring of affection and admiration for him from the millions of people whose lives he touched. His greatest legacy, besides his three children, is the joy and happiness he offered to others, particularly to those fighting personal battles,” she continued.

PHOTOS: Robin Williams & Friends

The late actor’s wife revealed his health diagnosis as her statement continued.

“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,” she revealed.

Adding, “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.”

PHOTOS: Remembering Robin Williams

On Thursday afternoon, Michael J. Fox, who has Parkinson’s, Tweeted in response to the news, noting he did not know that Robin had the disease.

“Stunned to learn Robin had PD. Pretty sure his support for our [foundation] predated his diagnosis. A true friend; I wish him peace,” he wrote.

Williams died on Monday at the age of 63.

Jesse Spero

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