While some contend that a celebrity role-model is the epitome of oxymoron in an era when behavior by stars like Hugh Grant, Robert Downey, Jr., Charlie Sheen, and Christian Slater seem to epitomize the wild, lascivious, hedonistic lifestyle associated with Hollywood fame and fortune, other celebrities have made a significant impact on culture and society by representing role-models to millions of fans and children worldwide. One such celebrity is Christopher Reeve, whose crippling horseback riding accident has won him new acclaim as a real-life Superman by those who face similar seemingly insurmountable obstacles in life. As a quadriplegic Reeves’ efforts to bring attention and garner research funding for spinal cord injuries coupled with his bravery, courage, and strength in surmounting obstacles they impose has inspired hope and a renewed determination to fight courageously in myself and many others who suffer from spinal cord injuries.
The formerly physically active Reeves has been stilled by his crippling accident. His immobility has given him plenty of time for thought. His thoughts have been focused on one thing-what will it take to get him out of his wheelchair. Reeves’ courage and eternal optimism will not allow him to immerse himself in self-pity and negative thinking. As he relates about his condition, “It’s essential to have a balance between acceptance and denial. On one hand, I have to accept that I’m in a wheelchair; otherwise, I’d be depressed all day. But the other part of my mind thinks: What’s it going to take to get me out of this wheelchair? Because it’s unacceptable. We are not meant to be in wheelchairs” (Zaslow 004). Reeves will not accept either that his condition is permanent. He has become an active champion of spinal cord research and funding. He is determined to get out of his wheelchair one day, or spend the rest of his life devoted to finding so
...