"Today, I joined Senators Tom Harkin and Lindsey Graham at a rally with the Christopher Reeve Foundation and Dana Reeve to announce the reintroduction of the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Act. I am so proud to work with Dana on this legislation. She continues to be a strong voice on behalf of all people with paralysis and mobility impairment. Her grace and courage at her husband's side, and in continuing to promote their shared commitment to advancing research and improving quality of life, is remarkable.

Christopher Reeve was an inspiration to millions of Americans. He faced his paralysis with dignity and courage and with an indomitable determination to never give up the fight. He believed strongly in this legislation, and we owe it to his memory never to give up our fight to pass it.

One of the things that Christopher Reeve taught many of us is that paralysis and impaired mobility can result from so many causes -- traumatic brain injury, stroke, ALS, multiple sclerosis, injuries, and many others. And all of these causes have their own specific research efforts underway, including clinical trials, and treatment best practices.

Chris also taught us that no matter what happens in life, you are not alone. While, the number one goal is to find a cure, this legislation would also improve the quality of life for persons with paralysis and other physical disabilities, through grants to non-profits for improved access to services, and grants supporting state programs designed to improve the long-term health of persons with paralysis through improved service coordination.

I am proud to help launch the reintroduction of this important legislation and I encourage my colleagues in the House and the Senate to become cosponsors and help us speed the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Act toward passage."