Friends and Celebrities Mourn Dana Reeve

March 7, 2006 — -- Following are statements from several of Dana Reeve's friends in the entertainment and political community, following the actress's death from lung cancer at the age of 44.

It is impossible to overstate the goodness of this beautiful young woman, and the challenge to faith that is involved in trying to understand her death. Every minute of her life for the past decade and more has been spent doing everything she could for other people. Even the moments she took for herself, to sing, were about giving us joy. Chris was my friend; I only got to know Dana later. But I came to see her as perhaps the most extraordinary person I'd ever met. Her radiance as a woman was fueled by her love. Her love was immeasurable and generously, tirelessly given. We will miss her so, so much.

-- Meryl Streep

The brightest light has gone out. We will forever celebrate her loving spirit.

-- Robin and Marsha Williams

We are deeply saddened by the death of our dear friend Dana Reeve. Dana was a courageous woman who never stopped fighting for what she believed in; whether it was finding better treatments and a cure for paralysis or in her battle against lung cancer, Dana was a model of tenacity and grace. Despite the adversity that she faced, Dana bravely met these challenges and was always an extremely devoted wife, mother and advocate. Dana was an inspiration to us and we will miss her. Our thoughts and prayers are with her son Will and the entire Reeve family. We especially want Will to know that his mother's determination and bravery inspired us and so many others, and we will continue to work toward the causes and goals she championed. We pray that the Reeve family draws solace in knowing that the dedication and optimism of Christopher and Dana will live on in the continuing work of the Reeve Foundation.

-- former President Clinton and Sen. Hillary RodhamClinton

Dana Reeve had a fierce grace. Under pressure, she embraced her personal struggles with dignity and humor. And always with the focus on the greater good. She filled her life with a love as clear and unflinching as her beautiful voice. Dana made the world a better place and we all shall miss her song terribly.

-Susan Sarandon

Catherine and I have been devastated by all the losses but we find inspiration by how Dana conducted her life.

-Michael Douglas

She showed us all the true power of love. She was an unflinching optimist, who never let anything get her down, and if she did she never showed us.