"Superman" star Christopher Reeve dies at age 52

[JohnLocke]

"Superman" star Christopher Reeve dies at age 52
Associated Press
Monday, October 11, 2004
----
NEW YORK (AP) — Christopher Reeve, the star of the Superman movies whose near-fatal riding accident nine years ago turned him into a worldwide advocate for spinal cord research, died Sunday of heart failure, his publicist said. He was 52.
Reeve suffered cardiac arrest on Saturday, before lapsing into a coma. He died Sunday at 52.
Reeve fell into a coma Saturday after going into cardiac arrest while at his New York home, his publicist, Wesley Combs told The Associated Press by phone from Washington, D.C., on Sunday night.
Reeve was being treated at Northern Westchester Hospital for a pressure wound that he developed, a common complication for people living with paralysis. In the past week, the wound had become severely infected, resulting in a serious systemic infection.
"On behalf of my entire family, I want to thank Northern Westchester Hospital for the excellent care they provided to my husband," Dana Reeve, Christopher's wife, said in a statement. "I also want to thank his personal staff of nurses and aides, as well as the millions of fans from around the world who have supported and loved my husband over the years."
----
Read the rest here.

[Ron Green]

1. Rest In Peace. A good man and a brave one.

[Bush_Eats_Beef]

8. Therein lies the lesson. Fight and believe until you can't fight anymore.

Kerry mentioned him in the same breath as Michael J. Fox during debate #2. What courage the man had, and his wife...who could have got going when the going got tough, but stuck unflinchingly by his side...folks, we're better off than we're willing to admit.

[NEOBuckeye]

69. I agree. This really causes me to stop and think.

Sometimes, I think my life isn't what it should be, and that I'm not where I want to be. I complain and gripe about my situation, about how I got here, and how much I'd like things to be better. And then I look at Christopher Reeve, whose life changed forever so suddenly. He lost so much, and yet he faced each day in the face of what he had lost with the kind of spirit, courage and determination we'd all hope to have if we ever found ourselves in his situation. He was only matched in those areas by his wife, who lovingly stood by him through it all.

Reeve had the heart of a Superman, if there ever was one. I'm so sorry to learn of his passing. He leaves behind a great lesson for all of us, if only we are willing to learn it.

[Cronus Protagonist]

90. Good-Bye Superman

http://bushspeaks.com/home.asp?did=185

[mermaid]

2. Aw, Shit...

This sucks major ass...
RIP, Chris...you will be missed!! :cry:

[The Traveler]

7. Those were the first words through my brain

when I read this.

Aw, shit.

[Lorien]

3. So very sad

another beautiful soul gone.

Rest in peace, Chris. ;(

[arwalden]

142. Reeve: "... a lot of people are going to die while we wait."

<snip>

Reeve himself was vocal on the subject. In 2001, while President Bush considered a decision on stem cell research -- he eventually allowed federal funding of research using existing stem cell lines -- Reeve spoke to CNN's John King about the impact of delaying study.

"That would be a big mistake because you could spend the next five years doing research on the adult stem cells and find that they are not capable of doing what we know that embryonic cells can do now," he said. "And five years of unnecessary research to try to create something that we already have would cause -- well, a lot of people are going to die while we wait."

<snip>

http://www.cnn.com/2004/SHOWBIZ/Movies/10/11/obit.reeve/index.html

[SW FL Dem]

4. This is so sad.

The world has lost a true hero.

[nyrnyr1994]

5. Woa...

This must have just happened, there's nothing else written in the article. Not even listed on yahoo's main page yet. Haven't heard much about him lately.

[WindRavenX]

6. what??

OMG...
RIP...:cry:

[troubleinwinter]

9. A wonderful man. So sorry for us all.

[cal04]

10. CHRISTOPHER REEVE

The 52-year-old fell into a coma on Saturday after suffering a cardiac arrest at his New York home.

Reeve had been paralysed from the neck down in a near-fatal horse-riding accident nine years ago.

The former actor spent most of his time since in a wheelchair and became an advocate for spinal cord research.

http://www.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30000-1154956,00.html

[flamingyouth]

11. May he rest in peace

I'm so sorry for his family. :(

[alittlelark]

12. But, But...he's SUPERMAN!!!

He cannot die.

He cannot for me anyway....:cry:

[Gothic Sponge]

13. Oh man!

I'm so sad! He was a real hero! :(

RIP

[oldtime dfl_er]

14. if you want to help -- hope its okay to post this

from the Christopher Reeve Paralysis foundation website:
http://www.apacure.com/team/involved.cfm

" Your donation supports the research of the world's most distinguished neuroscientists and funds organizations around the country that improve the quality of life of people living with disabilities. Every dollar brings us that much closer to a cure. If you would like to donate online through our secure server, click here. Or you can also mail or phone in your contribution:

Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation (CRPF)
500 Morris Avenue
Springfield, NJ 07081
800-225-0292
973-379-2690"

[are_we_united_yet]

15. Dear God

The news seems to go from bad to worse.

[roguevalley]

17. Should I have his grace in such adversity. This is very, very sad news.

[kokomo]

16. This is NOT on AP, Yahoo, CNN, Google, as I just checked at

1:35 EST.

[JohnLocke]

19. Uh...yes it is.

[MADem]

20. MSNBC has a banner up n/t

[eleonora]

25. CNN Breaking News

it's on there

[haele]

26. It's on AP raw feed.

Showed up at 1:23 EST. It hasn't made it to the front pages yet, though, apparently, some of west coast stations have been announcing it on local news.

Haele

[Fleshdancer]

18. I can't believe this

I thought he was doing better...physical therapy etc.

My heart goes out to his family. May they find peace.

[tmooses]

21. He Showed Incredible Courage and Determination

....I was always very touched the way the love between him and his wife withstood all the adversity he faced. Rest in peace, brave soul.

[eleonora]

22. Oooh noo! :( :(

This is so sad...

[deadparrot]

23. RIP.

[Gothic Sponge]

24. It's on CNN now.

http://www.cnn.com/

:(

[shanti]

27. god be with you, superman

RIP

[nonconformist]

28. RIP Superman. A real life hero to many. nt

[AnnitaR]

29. My thoughts are with his wife and kids.

They have been through so much over the past nine years. I hope that they can find some comfort in the fact that he is no longer suffering.

There are way too many families dealing with what the Reeves' have dealt with over the past nine years. Senseless suffering that could be ended with a cure that stem cell research could provide. But no this country is being controlled by the far right and their puppet. It's a damn shame so many in this country are so blind as to what is going on.

This is a sad day.

[Randi_Listener]

30. Domestic Debate

Is stem cell research the realm of domestic policy?

If so Kerry can jam this issue up *'s fat fucking ass.

[AnnitaR]

37. Yes it's domestic policy. However...

I doubt Kerry would bring up Christopher's name during the debate out of respect for his family. However, knowing how strongly they feel about the issue they may contact Kerry and ask him to do it.

[Randi_Listener]

40. Advantage

I want to make sure that Kerry has every advantage possible for the ass kicking he will lay on Fuckface Wednesday.

[mdredmond]

45. Dancing on graves isn't going to buy anyone an advantage. (nt)

[Randi_Listener]

53. No one is dancing on graves.

This needs to be used to drive home the point and ass fuck Chimp Shit.

[mdredmond]

57. Knock it off

The poor man's body is still warm and you want to use his death to make your point. How 'bout a little respect for his family and friends?

[ChavezSpeakstheTruth]

104. If Kerry were to bring Reeve up by name it'd be over for us

He'd be perceived as blaming the chimp for his death and Rove would pounce

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

135. How many times was the name REAGAN mentioned at the RNC

convention? Re: dancing on graves.

[Divine Discontent]

61. Sad

I pray for him & his family, and just want to make my 'voice' heard with you all. I liked him a lot from all that I saw.

God bless



***Can you read my mind?*** From the Motion Picture, "SUPERMAN"

Can you read my mind?

Do you know what is is that you do to me?

I don't know who you are

Just a friend from another star


Here I am like a kid out of school

Holding hands with a god

I'm a fool


Will you look at me

Quivering

Like a little girl

Shivering

You can see right through me


Can you read my mind?

Can you picture the things I'm thinking of?

Wondering why you are

All the wonderful things you are


You can fly!

You belong in the sky!

You and I

Could belong to each other


If you need a friend

I'm the one to fly to

If you need to be loved

Here I am


Read my mind

[wildflower]

123. I love that song.

And as others have mentioned here, I too had a crush on him when I was younger.

I admire his positive attitude and sheer force of will so much.

RIP.

[Gothic Sponge]

49. Is it really necessary to bring this up now?

Let's not be an opportunist.

[Randi_Listener]

60. We need a BIG win on Nov 2nd

We need something to counter the fucking bag-o-tricks from Fuckface.

[scottcsmith]

84. And that "something" is politicizing Chris Reeve's death?

Good grief, I can't believe what I'm reading here at DU, not just in this thread but others. Does everything need to be political? To what end? Can't we show some class and maturity about this?

[Gothic Sponge]

97. You're being an opportunist!

Have you no shame?!

[NAO]

70. Remember the Wellstone Memorial Debacle

This issue must be handled with extreme care. Even a well meant condolence or sincere tribute could be distorted and spun by the Repugs.

The memorial service for Paul and Sheila Wellstone was spun and the Repugs viscously attacked Dems for "politicizing" Senator Wellstone's death. (Never mind that THEY were the ones politicizing it, by using the memorial as an opportunity to attack the Dems).

Whatever is said, it must be done in a true spirit of respect to the family.

[Randi_Listener]

71. As long as it's for the right cause

It will be handled with some respect.

[Cats Against Frist]

96. Yeah -- and they milked the Reagan funeral

Didn't so much the ceremony, itself -- but the mentions of Dimson and Reagan in the same breath started to "ticker up." Maybe that's what pissed Ron Reagan off so much.

Anyway, I agree -- stem cell research is a political issue -- not the death of Christopher Reeve. First and foremost, it's not right. Second, you know the slimeshits from the GOP are so desperate, they'll take anything, and say anything about it -- true or not.

[JimmyJazz]

31. I am at a loss for words

:cry:

[serryjw]

32. He didn't live to see JK fund.........

stem cell reasearch. This is truly so sad. :cry:

[AlbertaLiberal]

33. This is so sad

I want to cry. It's also very weird because I was just talking about Christopher Reeve with my family this evening for Thanksgiving and how we were thankful that we were all able to walk. And we were hoping that one day Christopher Reeve would be able to walk again. Little did we know, as we were speaking he was already dead ...

[Ron Green]

39. And of course, depending on what you may believe, he's again walking...

running, jumping....

[calimary]

130. ...and flying.

Sigh...

[yardwork]

143. I do believe that!

Rest in peace on Earth, Christopher Reeve. He has joined the Light. I honor his memory and his courage.

[Longhorn]

106. Welcome to DU, AlbertaLiberal.

It is a sad occasion. He was a great man who did a lot of good for others and his good deeds will live on after his death.

[SheWhoMustBeObeyed]

34. So, so sad

:cry:

What a loss.

This is how I'll always remember him.



Rest in peace, you super man.

[cal04]

35. This is too sad, from the LA Times

Superman' Star Christopher Reeves, Dead at 52
Wheelchair-bound actor was also an advocate for spinal cord reserach

From The Associated Press, Times Staff Writer


NEW YORK — Christopher Reeve, the star of the "Superman" movies whose near-fatal riding accident nine years ago turned him into a worldwide advocate for spinal cord research, died Sunday of heart failure, his publicist said. He was 52.

Reeve fell into a coma Saturday after going into cardiac arrest while at his New York home, his publicist, Wesley Combs told The Associated Press by phone from Washington, D.C., on Sunday night.

Reeve was being treated at Northern Westchester Hospital for a pressure wound that he developed, a common complication for people living with paralysis. In the past week, the wound had become severely infected, resulting in a serious systemic infection.

"On behalf of my entire family, I want to thank Northern Westchester Hospital for the excellent care they provided to my husband," Dana Reeve, Christopher's wife, said in a statement. "I also want to thank his personal staff of nurses and aides, as well as the millions of fans from around the world who have supported and loved my husband over the years."



http://www.latimes.com/news/obituaries/la-me-reeves11oct11,1,4426763.story?coll=la-home-headlines

[xxqqqzme]

36. This really, really bums me out.

My paralysing event, while not as severe as Reeve's, was just a couple of weeks after his. I watched his recovery story unfold from my hospital bed. In my mind, my recovery and subsequent rehab was linked 2 his struggle. His determination was inspirational and boosted me through the long, hard work in rehab. I had such hope and well wishes 4 him. This just sucks so bad.

[Eloriel]

144. He was a tremendous role model for all of us

no matter what the state of our physical health and capabilities. I think I've rarely seen a more courageous person. I share yours and everyone's sense of loss about his death.

I sincerely hope you're doing well otherwise.

[Uroboros]

38. Once again, the good die young...

..while the evil f*cks seem to go on living forever.

RIP Superman

[Nashyra]

52. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family

May he rest in peace, it just does seem possible. I always thought that we would see him get out of his wheelchair. He gave so much hope to so many. I know that Kerry will not politicize this, but the fact that he mentioned him so recently will come up in the press. Maybe Superman's final good deed was the "October Surprise", this will bring a huge outcry and awareness for stem cell research.

[smirkymonkey]

146. My sentiments exactly.

How sad to lose someone who was truly a hero and who embodied many of the more noble qualities of humanity.

These are the things that really make me question life and the existence of a higher power. A man like this is taken and all the evil republican bastards will live to a ripe old age and die peacefully in their sleep. :(

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

41. USA Today story now up

http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2004-10-11-reeve-obit_x.htm

NEW YORK (AP) — Christopher Reeve, the star of the Superman movies whose near-fatal riding accident nine years ago turned him into a worldwide advocate for spinal cord research, died Sunday of heart failure, his publicist said. He was 52.

Reeve fell into a coma Saturday after going into cardiac arrest while at his New York home, his publicist, Wesley Combs told The Associated Press by phone from Washington, D.C., on Sunday night.

Reeve was being treated at Northern Westchester Hospital for a pressure wound that he developed, a common complication for people living with paralysis. In the past week, the wound had become severely infected, resulting in a serious systemic infection.

"On behalf of my entire family, I want to thank Northern Westchester Hospital for the excellent care they provided to my husband," Dana Reeve, Christopher's wife, said in a statement. "I also want to thank his personal staff of nurses and aides, as well as the millions of fans from around the world who have supported and loved my husband over the years."

[AngryLizard]

42. He was the first actor I ever had a crush on

Age 5, sitting there watching Superman. Freud would have a field day, because pretty much every guy I've ever liked since - including my husband - has looked a little bit like Christopher Reeve.

I loved him in pretty much everything he did. And when he became paralyzed, I always admired him for turning it into a positive, and using his celebrity for the greater good. He didn't hide, he didn't disappear. He was wonderful.

I admit. I cried when I saw his death was confirmed. I didn't know him, but somehow his death was just so personal.

[shanti]

62. i remember him for more than superman

one of my very favorite movies, somewhere in time, starred chris reeve.

[calimary]

131. Oh God, that movie is devastating. I cried for 20 minutes after it ended.

"Somewhere in Time." Don't know why it struck me the way it did.

Yeah, I had a crush on him, too.

Christopher Reeve ALWAYS had his heart in a good place. He was an activist long before he took on the issue of spinal cord injuries. He was a founding member of the Creative Coalition, a group mainly of New York actors and other artists who worked hard for progressive issues. He gave a damn way before it affected him personally.

He is a shining star. I'm crying as I write this. Had the chance to interview him a few times in the years before his accident. What a guy. It was hard to concentrate on the questions. I just wanted to sit there like a school girl and gaze at him! He was a TOTAL gentleman, compassionate, friendly, elegant, classy, intelligent, informed, articulate, really dedicated to matters outside his own personal sphere. He just really gave a damn. And he always tried to use his fame and his influence as a celebrity to do good and to help others and to champion great causes. WAY before he needed help on his own great cause.

But now, he CAN walk again. With the saints.

[GingerSnaps]

43. Oh No!

God Rest His Soul!

[pinto]

44. Go in peace, Mr. Reeves. You did a good job with a tough hand to play.

[Dem2theMax]

46. I'm in absolute shock.

Stunned. If anyone was ever going to get up out of a wheelchair and walk, it was going to be Superman. Christopher Reeve WAS a superman in the way he dealt with what happened to him. This is such a loss for humanity. And for his family, I cry. I do believe in God and heaven and I hope he's not only walking up there right now, I hope he's flying. RIP Christoper. And thank you for all you gave to us. Especially hope.

[montana_hazeleyes]

92. your post

started the tears flowing from me,Dem2theMax.:cry:

[Reciprocity]

47. Superman can fly now.

[ninkasi]

48. How very, very, sad.

What courage and strength he had; he will be sorely missed. His wife also is a courageous woman, sticking with him the whole time, her love never wavering. He showed the kind of strength, resolve, and courage that lesser men strut around pretending to have, but don't.

For me, he will always be Superman.

[The Zanti Regent]

50. He went down fighting

:-(

My heart goes out to his widow and children

[Guaranteed]

63. Yes, he did.

It seemed like he was winning, too.

This is so fucking sad.

[crossroads]

81. He was an inspiration on and off the screen!

So unexpected for him to die this young... he was such a presence...
:grouphug:

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

51. family has requested that donations be made in his honor

For those who care to do so, the family has requested that donations be made in his honor to the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation -- http://www.ChristopherReeve.org. Cards may be sent to the family in care of the Foundation at 500 Morris Avenue, Springfield, NJ 07081.


http://releases.usnewswire.com/GetRelease.asp?id=37854

[Media_Lies_Daily]

54. How very sad.

[burrowowl]

55. RIP Superman!

You were courageous in adversity. A truly brave person.

[Steelangel]

56. wow, I just think that was just a rumor...

Many of us will miss Reeve for sure. Reeves, Rest in peace and you are a hero to me and many people.

God be with you, Christopher Reeve!

[Gloria]

58. He nearly died from previous blood infections during the past year...

He had an interview a few weeks ago on the BBC World Service and I was shocked by this. He was no longer able to do the training because he had fractured a hip when the harness that held him up collapsed. So, he now accepted that he wouldn't walk again, since his rehab had been set back so far.

I didn't know he had had these problems. After this interview, I had the sense that he knew he was on borrowed time. A blood infection was going to eventually be impossible to overcome since his immune system was shot. He had problems with his bone marrow, too.

God, this is awful. RIP, brave Christopher.

[andino]

59. RIP Superman................

:(

[DaveofCali]

64. How many more people have to die for Bush?

"Reeve was being treated at Northern Westchester Hospital for a pressure wound that he developed, a common complication for people living with paralysis. In the past week, the wound had become severely infected, resulting in a serious systemic infection."

Chimpy doesn't support stem cell research that could save people like Christopher Reeves from complications like this!

[TaleWgnDg]

74. GWBush is too rigidly fixated on the means (religion-into-law) to

obtain and maintain his own power trip. As a result GWBush personifies and extols junk science -- many suffer as did Christopher Reeve.

May Reeve RIP.



. . . . . . . . . . .

[kokomo]

76. Don't blame everything on Bush. Infections are another story.

Even if Bush had supported stem cell research, the science is still in its infancy and possibly years away from helping folks like Chris Reeves. We have enough to hang on Bush without coming off as zealots. Bush didn't take Reeves life. That is not to say that foot dragging NOW won't cost some lives in the future.

[gumby]

88. Please go lay down

Thank you for your cooperation.

[malatesta1137]

103. Bush is too to blame

Reeve let go, the fact that stem cell research was being blocked by Bush took hopes from Mr. Reeve. Once you lose hope, there's little left. Your body becomes weak, infection takes over, your heart fails.

I was 8 years-old when I saw Superman and fell in love with film, film music (John Williams' music!) and got a major crush on the guy.

RIP, you're not only walking now, you are FLYING WITH THE ANGELS!

[cootiez]

152. I DO blame the shrub in chief (lying thief)

This is my first time posting, but I had to respond to the "don't blame everything on Bush" post. I do blame Bush for Christopher Reeve's infection. If you have any idea of how difficult the basics of life can be for someone who is a quadraplegic you will understand why. My cousin has been a quadraplegic for just a little longer than Chris Reeve was. In fact, she was treated at the same medical facility as he, and paid him a special visit to discuss his treatment options (whether or not to get a permanent trach, pacemaker to regulate movement of his diaphragm, etc. ) I do not make any pretense of speaking for my cousin, but I know the mental anguish she suffered in the first months and years of her recovery, as she made peace with the new facts of her life, such as private things (like going to the bathroom) now being quite public, having to have someone else exercise her body, and turn her frequently so she does not get bedsores, etc. Her family has struggled to make ends meet, scrimped and save to renovate their home so that she would be able to bathe, etc., and went for quite some time without a car so that they could save for a converted van. Imagine, just for a few minutes, that this is the life or you and your family. Imagine that you have learned of a new treatment that could free you and others. Now imagine that a politically motivated buffoon (or his cronies) has decided that there is profit to be made by taking a stand on this issue. How would you feel? Would you give up, even just a little bit? Medicine has learned that a person's emotional state has a lot to do with how quickly a person recovers from illnesses and diseases like cancer. It can be hard to keep fighting when roadblocks appear at every turn. I do blame George Bush and I am doing everything I can to defeat him and his kind.

[James T. Kirk]

113. 5/27/95 to 1/20/01

Reeve was injured on May 27, 1995. George W. Bush was sworn in on January 20, 2001.

The time Reeve spent handicapped before Bush was 2,064 days. There were 1,360 days with Bush. So, 60% of his life as a handicapped person was before Bush.

There was NO federal funding for embryonic stem cell research before Bush's 2001 decision to subsidize research on some stem cell lines. Bush has not banned embryonic stem cell research and is in fact funding it for the first time ever. There is nothing preventing private researchers, biomedical corporations or state governments from funding embryonic stem cell research.

You are way off base to politicize the death of Reeve for a political point which is uninformed. You put the "crass" in democracy.

[rfkrocks]

117. Dave you rule others drool

what "morans" forget is the suffering of people today who have diseases that could be treated or cured by stem cell research. People who can walk, talk or eat without pain sometimes don't give a rat's ass about others who can't-that is why we are Dem's because the rethug jackasses just want them to die to decrease the surplus population. These bastards would put Galileo back in prison if they could:argh:

[TaleWgnDg]

65. am struck in shock . . . may Christopher Reeve rest in peace . . .

***************************
"Look! Up in the sky!
It's a bird!
It's a plane!
No, it's SUPERMAN!

"Faster than a speeding bullet!
More powerful than a locomotive!
Able to leap tall buildings at a single bound!
***************************

From comic books as a kid,
to Saturday morning serials at the local movie house,
as well as George Reeves on television when I was a kid,
and then Christopher Reeve flying through the sky for my own kids,

May he rest in peace, and may embryonic stem cell research commence in America in his honor -- in Christopher Reeve's honor.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[K8-EEE]

66. FR Just Had To Pull The Thread On This

Can you believe I had the misfortune of stumbling on this news on FR?

Anyhow some of those sick MFs couldn't resist kicking the guy for his "'RAT politics" etc. Other insults too stupid and evil to repeat.

Fascists. Man I flat-out hate some of those people over there. But from the looks of it some of them were sickened by it too so that makes me feel a little better.

Chris Reeve, we will keep your fight alive. I will make a donation TODAY!

[farmboxer]

67. He Would Have Made A Great Senator. So Sorry.

We lost a very good person. He gave everyone hope.

[Chovexani]

68. He was a class act all the way

It's strange, I was just going through my Smallville tapes from last season and I watched "Rosetta", probably the best episode from that year. For those that don't watch the show, Christopher Reeve had a guest role a couple of times as a scientist that knew about Clark's Kryptonian heritage. He was still a phenomenal actor and everyone in the cast and crew made comments about what a great guy he was to work with. They even did a PSA with him and Tom Welling (who plays Clark Kent) promoting the foundation.

It may seem trite to say this, but it really can't be said enough: since the accident Reeve has been such an inspiration to us all, able-bodied and physically challenged alike. His courage and will to fight really gave a lot of people hope in their own lives. He was one of a kind, a class act, and he will be sorely missed.

May he know peace. I'm sure he's finally walking again.

[DarthDem]

72. Rest in Peace

I was so very hoping that a cure would develop soon and he would walk again. His positive attitude and spirit in the midst of his personal tragedy were an inspiration to us all. Whenever I think tings are going poorly, I think of him.

Sad. :( I wish he had lived to see the breaking a new day in the history of this great country.

[saracat]

73. Rest In Peace. You were a "real" hero and will always be a "Superman"

We will miss you. God Bless.

[Adenoid_Hynkel]

75. online memorial here

http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GSmid=46635002&GRid=9580027&pt=Christopher%20Reeve&

[lovuian]

77. He was a Hero

May he find Peace

[Desertrose]

78. I am so sorry to hear this.....

he was so courageous and brave....what an incredible example...he really was Superman.

He helped so many by the quality of his courage and light. He will be sorely missed not only by his family but by so many who looked to him as a beacon for hope.

damn....what a shame......I hope others will carry forward his fight to have stem cells research continue....we will never know how he could have been helped.

damn.
at least he is free now from the confines of a wheelchair and a body that didn't work anymore....

Fly high Superman.....soar with the angels.....:loveya:
DR

[crossroads]

79. Goodbye Steve, you were a "Super Man" on and off the screen!

We will miss you... and I will never forget your courage!
:cry:

[fortyfeetunder]

80. Look, up in the sky!

Whenever you hear a sudden rush in the air, you know Superman is still with us.

Mr. Reeve is now whole again and his good work during his life serve as a lasting legacy for all of us.

I won't even go into Freeperville to see the distasteful comments.

[Bride of Cthulhu]

82. RIP Superman

:cry:

[Skittles]

83. sucks

nt

[WhiskeyTangoFoxtrot]

85. I was a boy when he made Superman

come to life on the big screen. Chris Reeve was my boyhood hero as far back as kindergarten. I lost count of the number of towels I safety pinned around my neck for a cape to fight the forces of evil.

Rest in Peace, Chris. You are a hero to some in more ways than one.

[AIJ Alom]

86. God bless you Christoper Reeve and thank you.

God bless you sir. Thank you for your portrayal of Superman. In my chidhood, you were my first superhero. You taught me that good could always conquer evil. That fighting for truth and justice is the American way.

The last 9 years though, you have taught me much more. That inspite of your accident you continued to be a champion of truth and justice. Mr. Reeves you portrayed Superman in the acting world, but in the last 9 years you were the real Superman to all of us.

[Matilda]

87. So sad.

He was such a strong and courageous man. I always thought, if
anyone could get up and walk again, it would be him. His fine
example will be missed.

[montana_hazeleyes]

89. So much courage

This country and the world have suffered a deep loss.

It feels personal doesn't it? Christopher Reeve was a Real Hero and will be an inspiration forever.

:cry:

[Piperay]

91. Heartbreaking

news. :cry: :cry: :cry:

[LouisianaDem34]

93. R.I.P.

[KT2000]

94. We lost a good man tonight

His grace was a lesson for all. I will also remember that he was fighting for everyone - he felt a responsibility to fight for the people who were lost in the system.
When he spoke at the Democratic convention years ago he reminded us all to care for other people.
this is so sad.

[cal04]

95. A Superman, we'll miss you

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

98. I was so sad and could hardly believe it when I heard the news this

morning. G-d rest his soul.

:cry:

[PopSixSquish]

99. Sad News to Start the Day

Go in peace Mr. Reeve. You gave us hope.

[SoCalDem]

100. Poignant "cartoon" from b3ta

[auburngrad82]

101. This is close to home for me.

Last November I fell off my horse and hit a fence post head on. They thought I was dead at the time but I made a full recovery other than lasting problems with my rotator cuff and some neck problems I came through it fine. It took me about six months before I felt confident enough to ride again. "There but for the grace of God..."

I could have been in the exact same situation.

It makes me very sad. He was a fighter and by all accounts a good person.

[molly]

102. He was a Super Man

[rasputin1952]

105. May Chris Rest In Peace...

He was a remarkbly brave man. His push for stem cell reserch was heroic, and he showed people that even some of the most tragic situations can be overcome....:cry:

Peace be with you Chris...you will always a be a "Superman" for what you have done...:)

[meti57b]

107. a man of true courage and humanity, may he rest in peace.

[Ezlivin]

108. I hated it when he joined our "club"

All of us who have SCI (spinal cord injury) know what it's like to be paralyzed. We don't wish it on anyone, even our enemies. (Okay, maybe just some of our enemies.)

When Christopher Reeves was injured, I had two very different thoughts:

1. What a damned shame;


2. Now we have a spokesman that everyone will recognize.

As anyone who has an incurable disease knows, having a well-known spokesperson can do wonders for raising awareness and funds for treatment. Christopher Reeve took on the burden of doing just that for me and millions of other SCI people. He showed others what it's like to live with paralysis; now he's shown them what it's like to die.

And he, like others, knew that "compassionate conservatism" was a lie, that real compassion came from "bleeding heart liberals".

We won't walk on the other side—we'll fly.

[sonias]

114. That was a beautiful tribute Ezlivin

"We won't walk on the other side—we'll fly."

Rest in Peace Christopher Reeve.

:cry:

Sonia

[laruemtt]

109. he truly was a super man.

god bless you, christopher reeve. you have been my inspiration.

[Ilsa]

110. May this brave soul rest in peace.

I feel so badly for his wife and children.

My husband said, "Looks like the GOP got to him to shut him up." My husband never buys into conspiracy theories, but he said this all his own before I read anything tin-foil-hat-ish on DU. I hope Michael J. Fox isn't planning on chartering any planes soon.

Sigh. I think I'll go have a good cry now.

[Philostopher]

111. This was still rumor when I went to bed last night ...

but I suspected it was true.

My thoughts are with Christopher Reeve's family. It took a kind of intestinal fortitude I'm not sure I would have, to keep going like he did. Even though he had money, it would have been so easy for him just to hide and pity himself, but he didn't.

And here's hoping his experience and the foundation can help others who are in the same situation -- those of you out there with similar injuries have my sympathies, as well.

So rest in peace, Mr. Reeve, and here's to the work you and your family have done the past several years helping others.

[ScreamingMeemie]

112. We've lost a great person. I feel so bad for his family, his friends, and

his comrades suffering from paralysis. His presence gave people the will to live...:(

[Love Bug]

115. What a shame

I can't think of anyone who worked harder to regain his health than Christopher Reeve. He certainly gave it his all and to be done in by a pressure sore really sucks. His didn't sit around having a pity party, either--he kept up with acting, directing, and working as an advocate. I feel for his wife and children--they lost a fine husband and father. The rest of us lost a fine example of determination.

RIP

[Puglover]

116. I so wish

he had lived long enough to see Kerry kick Bushes ass on 11/2.
R.I.P. He was a real super hero.

[kskiska]

118. Daryn Kagan (Pigboy's girl) on CNN just said

"It was his (Reeve's) hope that he would walk again in his lifetime."

[Sputnik]

119. What a beautiful man, inside and out

His courage inspired us. His death....I can't even think about it right now. Sorry. I've not cried like this over the passing of a celebrity except for JFK, Jr., and Walter Payton.

Godspeed, Chris. You are loved and will be missed.

[LeftPeopleFinishFirst]

120. Waking up to this news around 10...

Just took a little while to sink in.

My thoughts are with his family, and the country right now. We've lost an amazing person. :(

[tlcandie]

121. Not merely a superman, but a super Spirit!!!

May we each take a piece of the mantel he left behind and keep it lifted to the Light to continue the efforts in bringing forth his vision and heart's desires!

Thank you for your time with us and the wonderful energies you left behind for us! The Light you brought into this world will never die! Mother Earth will always be stamped with your wonderful energy! The ripple effect felt forever...

May we live and learn the lessons of Light, Love, Joy, Patience, and Endurance as you so lovingly presented each and every moment of your time with us.

Light, Love, and Peace to all affected...may courage and hope replace hopelessness and depression...

:grouphug:

[Malikshah]

122. Too many thoughts racing through my mind

He was someone who inspired many during his life, and in his death will continue to inspire the multitudes.

A tragic loss--but in the end, we may all learn from his example.

[calimary]

124. Aw DAMN. Bless his heart. DAMN!!!

That's all I can say.

DAMN.

[Missy Vixen]

125. Goodbye and Godspeed, Superman

The world is a lesser place because he's now left it.

Julie

[IndianaGreen]

126. Had the Pope and the other religious fundies...

Had the Pope and the other religious fundies not opposed stem cell research, and had the Bush regime and the Congress not followed suit with anti-research legislation, Chris Reeve might still be alive today, and he may be walking!

I will point out that Chris Reeve's wealth afforded him therapy that is not available to the working class and to the poor in this country. This is another indictment of the American health care system that is geared up for the wealthy and those that can afford insurance.

In countries such as Cuba, health care is a human right not a privilege of economic class.

[tjdee]

127. First thing I saw today. How terrible for his family.

I'm sure he's in a better place.
So many of us hoped along with him that he'd get out of that wheelchair before the end.

Prayers and thoughts are with Dana and his family.
Very sad.

[SiouxJ]

128. Not just a movie hero

a real life hero, especially to all of us who have some sort of condition that stem cell research might help with some day. We owe it to him to get Shrub and his cronies out of the White House!

[Kadie]

133. He was truly a personal hero of mine.

I am crying this morning.

Thank you Chris, for all you have done. May you rest in peace.

[Marthe48]

129. He is at peace now

and so is his family. My brother was in a car accident that left him paralyzed from the shoulders down. He was in intensive care for about 6 months and passed away. I did hope that he would recover to where he could adapt to his limits, as Christopher Reeve did, but he suffered one complication after another and he finally lost his fight. My sympathy is with his family and friends.

Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing.
And when you have reached the mountain top—then shall you begin to climb.
And when the earth shall claim you limbs, then shall you truly dance."
(Gibran)

[ignatius 2]

132. I am so saddened by this, a strong and courageous voice is gone. Godspeed

Mr. Reeves, may you find peace and no pain in a better world.

[wicket]

134. Rest in Peace

[vogonity]

136. Two things I admired about Christopher Reeve

He was an athiest who did not suddenly change his religious views after his terrible accident. His faith was that humans could find a way to heal his condition through research and physical therapy. He did not spend the last nine years praying to a supernatural being in hopes of a miracle.

Also, I remember an interview with him on a talk show (Arsenio?) before his accident. He had gotten a bit of flack for doing a women's lingerie ad. It was a classy ad where he said that he liked and appreciated that particular band of lingerie on women. When the host asked him about why he did that ad he was refreshingly candid. He basically said that he needed the money due to some sort of unforseen tax liability. In my experience it is very rare to hear a celebrity be that straightforward.

Thank You Christopher Reeve

[Lorien]

137. Local news included a recent Kerry speech

during a tribute to Reeve. The speech was from last week (I think). Kerry called Reeve a friend and said that he truly believed he would walk again someday. It brought tears to my eyes.

[PlanetBev]

138. Fly high, free bird

We'll miss you, but you can soar now.

[arwalden]

139. How Tragic That He Didn't Live To Benefit From Stem Cell Research...

... and all the advances that the BRITISH (and other non-American) scientists are making.

My condolences to his wife Dana and their children and to the rest of thier family.

-- Allen

[arwalden]

140. Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation...

Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation: http://www.christopherreeve.org

Reeve spinal injury Q&A:
http://spine.wustl.edu/faq.html

[WillyT]

141. We're Still Fighting For Ya Chris, Rest In Peace...

*Sigh...*

:grouphug:

[drdtroit]

145. A great man indeed

I was fortunate to appear in "Somewhere In Time" with him in 1979 and found him to be a bright , intelligent and witty man.

RIP Chris!

BTW, AMC is showing "Somewhere In Time" tonight.

[phgnome]

147. RIP, Superman.

Aww, I was really sad when I heard this. He was Superman to me when I was a kid.

[arikara]

148. With his courage and quiet dignity

He brought hope to so many. He was so sure that a cure would be found and I believe that he will be proven right some day in the near future.

Rest in peace, Superman.

[Ellen Forradalom]

149. A man who made the best of a bad situation.

He had my wholehearted respect. I doubt I would have had the personal resolve he showed in the same circumstances. He is gone much too early; him and his advocacy will be missed.

[Q3JR4]

150. RIP Superman.

Persons in need of Stem cells have lost a strong advocate. President Kerry's first act should be to reinstate funding for this important medical research.

[coreystone]

151. Two of my favorite Christopher Reeve movies are....

"Death Trap", co-starring Michael Cain (1982) and "Somewhere in Time" co-starring Jane Seymour (1980).

Actually, "Somewhere in Time" is one of my top ten favorite movies. I'm a nut for sad "tear jerkers". I hope no one minds, but, the Superman movies really never did much for me.

I would like to say "thank-you" Christopher Reeve, for what you have shared with us in your life.

[Hepburn]

153. Rest in Peace....

....Somewhere in Time, Christopher Reeve.

[podnoi]

154. A wonderful man

Truly a tragedy to lose him.

[txindy]

155. RIP, Christopher

I thought you were terrific in everything you did and have nearly worn out my "Somewhere in Time" tape. You were one of the best.

[ciaobox]

156. MSNBC Poll on Impact of Reeves on Campaign

http://question.msnbc.com

[Wakingupnow]

157. Chris Reeve--SUPERMAN--helped save my life

I've been reading DU for 3 mos, and I think it's fitting this is my first post. In February, a "little bag of germs slammed me down"--an abscess inside my spine between vertebrae C-3-C-7 compressed my spinal cord, leaving me paralyzed from the neck down. Fortunately, emergency surgery removed the pressure. The neurosurgeon was not optimistic about my chances for recovery because of the extensive damage to the cord, but within a few hours after surgery I was able to use my left hand enough to operate the remote control of my ICU bed to call a nurse AND turn on the TV. One of the first things I saw was the Superman movie, and I saw that as a positive omen that I was going to be all right. Chris Reeve was an inspiration, and I was aware of his remarkable accomplishments in his survival and ongoing recovery/rehab. When my therapist had me on the therapy table on my stomach, arms extended in front of me, I celebrated by singing the Superman theme from the movie to my and others delight in the therapy gym.

Now I am walking and regaining much of my function--a way to go but like Chris I wouldn't accept the surgeon's doom & gloom prognosis. At my last visit with the surgeon, he just shook his head when he saw me walk without a crutch (with help of a brace on my right leg) and said as far as he's concerned, "the sky's the limit!"

Just this weekend, I began reading Chris' book, "NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE" written last year, and it told more of his story and his ongoing work as an advocate for SCI patients. I felt moved to contact him directly to thank him for helping to save my life. It was only a few hours after I told my wife of my desire to write him when I heard of his death--seen first on DU.

I grieve for our loss of this real Super Man and know that just because his physical body is no longer with us that his work will continue through us all. After all, he said that Superman fought for "Truth, Justice, and the American Way", and I believe that this election is about those values. We need to double our efforts and remove the scourge of the kryptonite that is this current administration from our lives and believe in the strength we have as we join together and make the world a better place. Thank you Chris. God Bless and Rest in Peace.

[Hand]

159. Welcome to DU, Wakingupnow...

...and thanks for this beautiful testament to a truly beautiful human being.

:hug:

[DinahMoeHum]

158. Christopherr Reeve was a "Man of Steel" in real life.

Fly on, hero.

:kick:

[JohnLocke]

160. Kick

[Hand]

161. Hail and Farewell...

:cry: