Christopher Reeve and spinal-injury research
I just read this fascinating (and inspiring) article in The Observer on Christopher Reeve and the progress he has made since being paralyzed across 90% of his body eight years ago.
One Step Beyond (part one, part two)
According to John McDonald, a researcher that has worked with Reeve:
When Reeve is confronted about pushing researchers and doctors to work faster to perform more work in the field, his response is:
And
I know that there are a couple of AO regulars working in the field of medical research, and I would be interested to hear perspectives on Reeve?s self-admitted pushiness and his belief that research should be 'fearless'. His force of will has undoubtedly been a contributory factor to his recovery, but to what extent has it been a contributory factor to advances in the field of spinal-injury research?
One Step Beyond (part one, part two)
According to John McDonald, a researcher that has worked with Reeve:
Quote:
Reeve's bone density is also now in the normal range. His muscle strength is around 80 per cent. The key challenge that remains is for Reeve to develop the co-ordination and balance to use his muscles effectively.
Reeve's bone density is also now in the normal range. His muscle strength is around 80 per cent. The key challenge that remains is for Reeve to develop the co-ordination and balance to use his muscles effectively.
When Reeve is confronted about pushing researchers and doctors to work faster to perform more work in the field, his response is:
Quote:
If we push, that's our prerogative...And scientists, of course, have the right to push back.
If we push, that's our prerogative...And scientists, of course, have the right to push back.
And
Quote:
nothing of any significance has ever been achieved without reasonable risk
nothing of any significance has ever been achieved without reasonable risk
I know that there are a couple of AO regulars working in the field of medical research, and I would be interested to hear perspectives on Reeve?s self-admitted pushiness and his belief that research should be 'fearless'. His force of will has undoubtedly been a contributory factor to his recovery, but to what extent has it been a contributory factor to advances in the field of spinal-injury research?
Comments
I think the layman pushing researchers can be good or bad. There are some examples of advocacy groups pushing in the wrong way. In the end it may discourage researchers in one area and push them to another.