27th May 1995 was a major turning point in Christopher Reeve’s life that forced him to rethink many life choices. The Superman actor experienced a horrible accident during an equestrian riding competition in Culpeper Virginia.

Reeve had developed an interest in horses after understanding the basics of riding for the 1985 movie Anna Karenina. In a competition held in 1985, Reeve, riding on his horse Buck had to jump over various obstacles. While Reeve galloped confidently on his horse Buck as they crossed the initial obstacles, the horse hesitated before the third jump. The moments that ensued post that gave everyone the shivers.

An equestrian accident that brought Christopher Reeve to the crossroads

As reported by WeCapable, after the initial jumps, Reeve and his horse had to cross a massive 3-foot fence that was twisted in the shape of a ‘W.’ However, the horse came to a sudden halt before the third jump. The brake had caused Reeve to lurch forward over the top of the horse’s head, with his arm entangled in the bridle. Unfortunately, he fell over the opposite side of the fence and lost all consciousness.

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Post this, Reeve was rushed to the University of Virginia Medical Centre where he regained consciousness after five days in the intensive care unit. However, unfortunately, his condition remained critical as he had broken two top vertebrae of his spinal cord. At the time, Dr. Jane, the head of neurosurgery, told him that he had to undergo an operation to connect his skull with his vertebral column and was warned that the survival chances were thin.

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Reeve took the risk and the operation was finally performed shortly after. Luckily, for Reeve, the operation was a success. After this operation, the Superman actor’s life underwent a massive transformation. Christopher Reeve’s journey was, in fact, one that traversed through hardships with courage in his heart.

The aftermath and the beginning of a new chapter for Superman

21 days post this successful operation, Reeve was transferred to the Kessler rehabilitation center in New Jersey. There, Reeve understood how to operate a wheelchair for movement. During this time, Reeve was still on the ventilator, where a respiratory therapist would check his vitals. However, unfortunately, Reeve’s vitals were very low. Despite his discomfort, Reeve kept his promise about making his first public appearance since the accident at a fundraising event of the Creative Coalition in New York.

Reeve went to the event and presented Robin Williams with an award on the stage for his charitable work amidst a crowd of 700 people. The crowd rose and gave him a standing ovation. In November, Reeve’s strength had returned and was finally able to breathe on his own. Regaining confidence, Reeve learned not to take his health issues negatively and arrived at the 1996 Academy awards in a wheelchair, inspiring millions. He is truly the Superman!

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