Eulogy for the late
Mr. Christopher Reeve
Mr. Christopher Reeve, who it may be said, is our war comrade, was caught by a serious infectious disease caused by pressure sores. On September 9, 2004, he fell into a coma after a cardiac arrest, at his house in the state of New York. On the next day, September 10, he passed away, achieving 52 years of age, in the hospital.
The biggest event that drastically changed his life was an accident that broke his cervical vertebrae, after he fell from his horse, during an equestrian event in 1995. After the accident, Mr. Reeve was forced to live with a wheel chair and a respirator. Since his accident, he promoted the improvement of the medical research, which included regenerative medical techniques passionately and without giving up hope. The inheritance he left to us is such intent passion and efforts. I think we have to promote and embrace this valuable inheritance, as well as his dying wishes.
Unfortunately, Mr. Reeve did not walk again on his own feet. However, the hopes of many people who have had spinal cord injuries, but try again to walk, on their own, are step by step, becoming more and more, a reality.
Mr. Reeve was not only a great actor, but also a man of great humanity, especially exhibited following his injury. The memory of Mr. Reeve will remain in many peoplesf hearts, deeply and eternally.
I pray along with you, that his soul may rest in peace.
October 2004
Makoto Ohama, Chairman
Japan Spinal Cord Foundation