Fox remains optimistic despite Parkinson's

WASHINGTON, May 3 (UPI) -- U.S. actor Michael J. Fox says he feels his optimistic take on his Parkinson's disease is an inspiration to others facing their own hardships.

The former "Family Ties" star, who was diagnosed with the degenerative disease in 1991, said his optimism is rooted in his belief his life has been filled with more pluses than minuses, The Washington Post reported Sunday.

"I feel that whatever hardships or losses I've had as a result of the Parkinson's are far outweighed by the gifts I have been given in life," Fox, 47, said. "Everyone gets their own bag of hammers, and I think people are heartened by the fact that I feel grateful and optimistic."

Fox has already detailed his positive take on life in the books, "Lucky Man: A Memoir" and "Always Looking Up: The Adventures of an Incurable Optimist," but will now explore the mindset with his own ABC special.

The Post said "Michael J. Fox: Adventures of an Incurable Optimist," an hour-long special due on the TV network, will follow the "Back to the Future" star as he investigates the impact and reasoning of an optimistic lifestyle.