“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.” -Christopher Reeve
Christopher Reeve, best known for his work in the Superman films, died yesterday due to heart complications. Reeve, paralyzed nine years ago in an equestrian accident was an advocate of stem cell research and devoted his life to the researching a cure for spinal chord injuries. He was 52.
He was a hero of mine when I was a kid. I dug out one of my Superman shirts (adult size of course) this morning and put it on in honor. I’ve been getting a lot of positive comments at work because of it.
Superman the movie directed by Richard Donner is still number 1 in my top ten Superhero movies. The fourth installment was co-written by Reeve. He was attempting to make a statement and wanted to write about one of the biggest threats to mankind…nuclear weapons. In the utopian script Superman addresses all world leaders and rids the world of nuclear threat. Though the movie was a box-office failure and truly the cheesiest of the 4 installments starring Reeve, it was an idealistic dream that Reeve executed based solely on his personal convictions.
A little over a year ago, I purchased his second book since his accident entitled, “Nothing is Impossible”. It details his struggle of dealing with his disability, becoming an actor and finding his path in life. I read it in a day. It was quite inspirational to read about your childhood hero who could fly, was paralyzed and learned to love life despite his obstacles–which brings us back to the quote at the beginning of this entry. He was a man of conviction, strength and perseverance. He was a super man.
Rest in peace.