On 10 October 2004, Christopher Reeve died of heart failure at the age of 52. To most of us, Christopher Reeve was more than just an actor - he was Superman, a pop-culture icon that represented the very best of heroism and valour. And while his adventures in comic books and the silver screen remain fictional, it is Christopher Reeve's struggles that proved that he is forevermore - onscreen and off - Superman.

Born in New York City on 25 September 1952, Christopher Reeve made his acting debut in a stage production of Gilbert and Sullivan's The Yeoman of the Guard. This would eventually lead to his embarking on a professional career as an actor, and in 1974 he landed the part of cold-hearted bigamist Ben Harper on the television soap opera Love of Life. However, it would be his portrayal of Superman in Superman: The Move in 1978 that cemented his reputation and brought him into the spotlight. While Reeve would act in dozens of movies since, he will always be identified most as Superman. He would reprise the role for three additional sequels in 1980, 1983, and 1987.

In May 1995, Reeve broke his neck in an accident while participating in an equestrian competition. While he survived, this incident crippled him from the neck down. Enduring months of therapy to allow him to breath for extended periods of time without the aid of a respirator, he would return to the public spotlight promoting neurological and stem cell research in the hopes of regaining mobility for not only himself but also for others who are in a similar predicament.

Not allowing his physical disabilities to get in the way for his passion for filmmaking, Christopher Reeve continued to work both in front and behind the camera. In 2000, he became a part of the Superman mythos again by playing Dr Virgil Swann on the television series Smallville. Meanwhile, Reeve had actually regained some feelings in his legs and was even able to move his fingers to a limited extent, a step closer to his dream of walking again. Unfortunately, this was not meant to be as he passed away before his dream could be realized.

Thank you, Christopher Reeve, for entertaining and thrilling the world for over two decades, making us believe that a man can truly fly, and inspiring and proving to us that anyone can accomplish anything with sheer determination. You will be greatly missed.

READING MATERIAL
http://www.cnn.com/2004/SHOWBIZ/Movies/10/11/obit.reeve.ap/
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001659/
http://www.superman-v.com/reeve_tribute.php