The unexpected passing of Dana Reeve, the energetic and radiant widow of Christopher Reeve, at the young age of 44 left many wondering, “How could this happen?”
Reacting to Dana Reeve's death, Robin Williams expressed, “The brightest light has gone out.”
Williams and Christopher Reeve had been roommates at The Julliard School.
During a Senate session on Tuesday, Democrat John Kerry shared his enduring memory of Reeve's grace and strength following the death of the “Superman” actor in October 2004.
An official from the Christopher Reeve Foundation confirmed that the Reeves' 13-year-old son, Will, is receiving loving care from family and friends, with his future secured as arranged by his mother.
Dana Reeve passed away on Monday night at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Medical Center after battling lung cancer, according to Sean Dougherty, a foundation spokesperson.
She is survived by her teenage son, Will, and two stepchildren, Matthew and Alexandra.
Will faced the loss of both parents within 18 months.
His father became paralyzed after a horse-riding accident, leading Dana to put her performing career on hold to support Christopher.
Their journey together ended tragically in 2004 when Chris Reeve succumbed to an infection.
Assuming the public role for the Christopher Reeve Foundation, Dana Reeve dedicated herself to advancing treatments for paralysis until she revealed her own battle with lung cancer on August 9.
Kathy Lewis, president and CEO of the foundation, paid tribute to Dana Reeve's resilience and courage under challenging circumstances, acknowledging her as a source of comfort and inspiration to all.
Despite sharing her cancer diagnosis in August and receiving widespread support, Dana Reeve's sudden passing took many by surprise.
Just days before her death, on January 12, she appeared healthy and joyful while performing at Madison Square Garden in honor of Mark Messier.
Christopher Reeve, once known as Hollywood's “Superman” before becoming an advocate for spinal cord research post-accident in 1995, passed away on October 10, 2004.
Dana Reeve's positive spirit shone through even during her battle with cancer, as she expressed her desire to return to Broadway and her determination to fight the disease.
Remembered for her unwavering support of her husband and commitment to spinal cord injury research, Dana Reeve's legacy lives on through her work with the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation and various other organizations.
Her resilience and dedication were recognized through numerous awards, highlighting her impact on advocacy and caregiving.
Former President Bill Clinton and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton extended their condolences to the Reeve family, emphasizing Dana's inspiration and their commitment to continuing her advocacy efforts.
Survived by her father and sisters, Dana Reeve leaves behind a lasting legacy that continues to inspire those touched by her life.
Plans for her funeral remain undisclosed, with the family suggesting donations in her memory to the Christopher Reeve Foundation in Short Hills, N.J.
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