By Staff
Chuck Bodiford
The words are synonymous with other phrases such as faster than a speeding
bullet, more powerful than a locomotive and up, up and away. Each phrase in
itself brings pictures of the same person to mind. This person traveled from
a distant planet and lived here on Earth as our protector. His name is
Superman and lived in a world of cartoons. That is until a man named
Christopher Reeves brought him to life.
Growing up I was always attracted to superheroes. These heroes were people
that were larger than life and always found themselves in some kind of
trouble where they would have to display their colorful costumes and with
some fantastic power would dispatch the evil forces. Myself, I was always attracted to the DC comic characters, which showcased Batman, Wonder Woman, the Flash, and many other fantastic characters including Superman.
Reeves is probably to blame for my childhood love of cartoons and funny books. The first time I saw Reeves as Superman came about one night when I was spending the night at my grandmother's house. Flipping through the channels I tuned in just as Superman flew up to rescue Lois Lane as she fell from a helicopter. Lois's response to Superman's comment of saving her by saying, "Then who's got you," was all it took to capture me for a lifetime.It wasn't that green rock called Kryptonite that sent one of my childhood
heroes to rest but actually an infection common in people with paralysis and
relying different medical devices for their care.
One things still the same, whether Reeves was wearing the cape or not. He
was a hero. Rather than falling away after the accident never to be heard
from again, Reeves became one the most recognizable supporters of spinal cord research. His fight for a better life for himself and everyone that
suffers from some sort of paralysis is awe-inspiring.
Christopher Reeves was truly, a superman.
Chuck Bodiford is an Atmore native and publisher of the Advance. He may be reached by calling 368-2123 or by email at chuck.bodiford@atmoreadvance.com