"One unlucky moment"
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Christopher Reeve's inspiring autobiography begins with the 1995 riding accident that left him a paraplegic when he was 42. The book then flows between the present and his past, detailing his childhood, extensive stage career, and sudden fame as Superman in 1978. In addition to being a popular leading man, Reeve was also a dedicated sportsman; the contrast between his life before and after the accident and the regimen required to not only survive but live an active and rewarding life is a fascinating story.
He credited his wife and children for sustaining him and giving him his love for life, and he found great joy and purpose in working on behalf of spinal cord research. His writing is honest and intimate. I'm glad he was surrounded by so many people who loved him to the end.
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Very Moving
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A wonderful testament to the hunan spirit. Makes me realise how easily I give up on certain things or how I should prioritise more. A fantastic man who had so much to teach us. This story will stay with me for a long time.
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One of the most moving, inspiring books i've ever read.
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This is one of the most moving, inspiring books i've ever read. It is part autobiography and part record of his rehabilitation. He comes across as a grounded, positive man and you can't help but feel inspired by his career, life, attitude and resolve to survive and enjoy his life after his accident. It is a cliche to say 'this book changed my life' but in this case it is true. It makes you evaluate your life and live with real appreciation. It is worth reading for that overwhelming feeling alone.
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Inspiring - an illustration of how to live with grace
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The impact of 'Superman in a wheelchair' is enormously profound, and I think the way that Christopher Reeve tells his story, and the way he - and his family have responded to something which must have seemed so tragic is very sobering, and certainly I felt through the book that his story was asking some very deep questions about how we/I live my life. He has turned something awful into a process of learning and self growth for himself, has benefitted through his charity work and fundraising for scientific research the prognosis for the possible regeneration of the spinal cord - which of course would be a huge benefit for many people with spinal cord injuries. He has also used his celebrity very well, to help to change the perceptions that the able-bodied may have of people with disabilities. His courage and honesty and determination to live the best life he can, against all odds also made me (able-bodied) look at the number of times I 'give in' to small problems, 'give up' on small challenges. I think he is a great teacher and inspirer.
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Still me - an insight
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Christopher Reeves accident was well documented in the press, but no one had any idea of what was going on in his mind. This book gives you an insight into the mind of a person who has had a life altering accident, regardless of his celebrity, everyone who reads this book will not be able to help but be touched by Christophers honesty. It can be a little dark in places as the actor struggles to adjust to his new life, but the overwhelming feeling of the book is one of hope and determination. An enjoyable read for both fans and lay man alike.
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