In Memoriam

I was very saddened to learn of the death of Christopher Reeve. In many ways this man was a beacon of hope to people in similar circumstances because he believed in himself, and he never quit trying.

When you consider his longings, and his faith in the possibilities to be derived from continuing stem cell research, it makes his death at this time even more painful.

His is one more voice silenced in the face of George Bush and his reprehensible insane Christian fundamentalism, which I've never respected, and have always viewed with great suspicion, seeing it as merely another tool being used to sway masses of mindless voters toward him, no matter what kind of liar, thief and shill he is.

Christopher Reeve had the attention of this nation every time he tried to walk, every time he tried to get one millimeter ahead of the thing that killed him.

He was an actor who played a part, and finally, in the most egregiously unfortunate condition, he became a hero.

I believe many people who hoped he would be able to sway opinion on stem cell research enough eventually, to make it not only allowable, but vigorously pursued, are deeply distressed and grieved by his death.

I will always see him as whole. And I will never forget his incredible struggle, and his great accomplishments, brought about by sheer willpower, and courage way beyond that of the ordinary.

I tender my condolences to all who loved him.