May 11, 2003
Reuters
Washington
Paralysed film star Christopher Reeve came to Congress on Wednesday to push for a new bill that he said would be the first to provide a comprehensive approach to treating and eventually curing paralysis.
The US$300 million package includes funds for research into paralysis and rehabilitation. It addresses access to treatment and quality of life issues for the 2 million Americans who have been paralysed from spinal cord injuries, strokes and diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
Reeve, best known for playing ``Superman'' in the movies, suffered a life-threatening spinal injury in a horse-riding accident event in May 1995. He now divides his time between directing film projects and working for a foundation that bears his name.
This is the first time he has focused on specific legislation dealing with paralysis.
``This bill could do so much,'' he said. ``It can help with research
and also quality of life - jobs, access, recreation.
Copyright © 2003, Reuters Ltd