When Chris Burke was born with Down Syndrome 31 years ago, doctors advised Frank
and Marian Burke to put their newborn son in an institution. The Burkes not only
ignored that advice, they treated Chris the same as their other children - a decision
that has led to a remarkable life and talent. Best known for his role as Corky
Thatcher on the ABC-TV series "Life Goes On" and most recently
as Taylor on the CBS-TV series "Touched By An Angel". Chris
is living out his dreams thanks to perseverance, a belief in himself and a willingness
to focus on his abilities rather than his disabilities.
Along with long-time
friends Joe and John DeMasi, Chris has released several albums. Capturing his incredibly
positive spirit, each album is full of uplifting and inspiring music the entire family
can enjoy. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the records is donated to Very
Special Arts, an international organization providing programs in the arts for individuals
with physical and mental disabilities.
Chris met twin brothers Joe and John
DeMasi some 18 years ago when they were his music counselors at a summer camp for
people with disabilities. Although everyone at camp was touched by the DeMasis' music,
it was Chris who became their biggest fan and closest friend, participating in all
of the musical activities and shows they ran. Since that time, the DeMasis have gone
on to entertain on famous stages throughout the world and perform with such legends
as Richie Havens and Harry Chapin. Along with Chris, the threesome currently performs
at schools and conferences around the country.
Growing up, Chris' parents,
sisters and brother showered him with affection, instilling such a strong sense of
self-worth that he began to call Down Syndrome "Up Syndrome". Armed with
little information about Down Syndrome, the Burkes sought early education and therapy
for their youngest son and encouraged a range of interests. But when Chris' enthusiasm
for acting and Hollywood developed beyond just a phase, the family gently tried to
dissuade him from his dreams. Undaunted, Chris pursued his interest - writing TV
scripts, reading books, corresponding with people in the film industry, and attending
evening acting classes in New York City. His persistence paid off.
"Life
Goes On" was created after Burke landed the role of a boy with Down Syndrome
on the ABC-TV movie "Desperate". His work so impressed network executives
that the film's producer was asked to write a show with Burke in mind. The critically
acclaimed drama series "Life Goes On", which earned Chris a Golden
Globe nomination, aired on ABC from 1989-1993 and more recently on The Family Channel.
Burke's success on the series led Bantam Doubleday Dell to publish his autobiography,
A Special Kind of Hero, in 1992. He has filmed a PSA with former President
Bush, marched in President Clinton's inaugural parade with the Special Olympics,
received numerous awards including a Youth In Film award and a Christopher award,
and had a New York City public school named in his honor. In addition, he continues
to have a fresh television presence with guest-starring roles on shows like "Jonathan,
The Boy Nobody Wanted", "The Commish" and the ABC mini-series
"Heaven and Hell".
Chris also serves as spokesperson for
the McDonald's McJobs program, the National Down Syndrome Congress, and the National
Down Syndrome Society which, using him as an example, proclaims: "Having
Down Syndrome doesn't mean you can't reach the stars...or sometimes even become one."
Chris and the DeMasis enjoy a close relationship with The Arc of Arkansas. They
have played a key role in the success of The Arc's Performing Arts Camp and will
be featured guests again this year. You may write to him in care of CJJ Enterprises,
566 Wantagh Avenue, Levitttown, N.Y. 11756
Personal Interview
with Chris Burke
National Down Syndrome Society
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