Christopher Reeve was a well known actor, advocate, husband and father. As an actor, Reeve was known for his epic role as Superman in the superhero Superman film series. He won over audiences worldwide with his performance. Christopher made people believe he was invincible. His acting roles extended to other films including “Somewhere in Time”, “Street Smart” and “The Remains of the Day”. He was the husband of Dana Reeve and father to three children: Alexandra Reeve Givens, Matthew Reeve and William Reeve.
Reeve was an avid and active athlete engaging in many sports. In 1995, Reeve participated in an equestrian competition where unfortunately he was thrown from his horse and suffered a spinal cord injury. In an instant, Reeve was severely paralyzed. He spent the next part of his life dedicated to rehabilitation, lobbying for better medical insurance coverage and conducting spinal cord injury research. In 1996, he founded the Christopher Reeve Foundation, to further his goals and find a cure. Today, the foundation is named the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. The mission is dedicated “to curing spinal cord injury by advancing innovative research and improving quality of life for individuals and families impacted by paralysis.” (www.christopherreeve.org).
After the first Superman film debuted, Christopher Reeve was asked what his definition of a hero was. His response, “A hero is someone who commits a courageous action without considering the consequences”. After his spinal cord injury, he defined a hero as “an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” Post his accident, Reeve continued to appear in movies. He even directed a film and wrote two books about his experience as a man who was paralyzed. In October 2004, Christopher died at the age of 52.
The powerful and moving documentary, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, recently debuted. Narrated by family and friends, the film chronicles Reeve’s life from childhood through adulthood. His story showcases a life of fame, triumph, hardship and advocacy. Raw footage is featured which portrays Christopher’s life as he experienced it. Christopher is a model of perseverance and courage. He was a man who made a difference.
