World Report: October 22, 2004 Vol. 10 Iss. 6
- This Issue:
- Table of Contents
- Cover Story
- Cover Story - Spanish Version
- Mini-Lesson
- Comprehension Quiz
- Teacher's Guide and Worksheets
A Life of Super Courage
Actor Christopher Reeve became famous for his role as Superman in 1978. But it was Reeve's offscreen actions that made him a superhero in real life. Reeve died at age 52 on October 10. But his legacy lives on. He had been working to help people with serious spinal-cord injuries.
In 1995, Reeve broke his neck in a horseback riding accident. He could not move from the neck down. After he was paralyzed, Reeve challenged himself physically and made small but remarkable gains. He urged lawmakers and scientists to fund and pursue spinal-cord research.
The Christopher Reeve foundation has given $40 million for spinal-cord research. "The world has lost a tremendous activist and an inspiration for people worldwide," said friend and fellow actor Robin Williams.
