1. No one could imagine Christopher Reeve any other way.
This was the only way anyone could imagine Christopher Reeve. (In the mind of most people, he was nearly unconquerable like superman.)

2. His horse, Eastern Express, appeared to be in fine shape.
His horse, Eastern Express, seemed ready to run and win the race.

3. He thought it might be best for his family, too.
He thought it might also be the best thing for his family (if he would die).

4. Wherever Christopher appeared, his speeches met with standing ovations — and many teary faces.
Wherever Christopher appeared, people stood to applaud and many of them were moved to tears.

5. Despite his brave attitude, Christopher has had his share of “down” times.
Though Christopher fought courageously for his life, sometimes he felt depressed. “Down” means sad and discouraged.

6. After night-time dreams of running and playing with his son, he needed the 20 minutes “to wake up and make that shift ... ”
After dreaming at night about running and playing with his son, he needed 20 minutes to adjust to the fact that he was still disabled.