Best known for his work in the Superman series movies, Reeve was a heartfelt role model for many. In 2002, he was amazingly able to make slight movements in his fingers and toes, which brought new light to the medical world where the common belief is that most spinal cord injury recovery happens within the first six months.

Presidential hopeful, Senator John Kerry made note of Reeve in the second presidential debate last Friday when the issue of stem cell research was addressed. Kerry pointed out that Reeve worked out everyday, hoping that one day he would walk again thanks to advances in medical science through stem cell research. Stem cell research is a bitterly debated topic that crosses partisan lines. Former Republican first lady Nancy Regan and her son Ron support an increase in stem cell research. Others argue about the morality of the source of the stem cells, specifically embryonic stem cells.

Sources: CNN, MSN