down syndrome

An Interview with Chris Burke on Living with Down Syndrome - with Dr. Beth Milligan

What is Down Syndrome?

Chris Burke was born with Down Syndrome, which meant that he was born with an extra chromosome 21.
People with Down syndrome are sometimes smaller, and their physical and mental developments are slower, than people who do not have Down syndrome. There is usually a wide variation in their mental abilities.

Although individuals with Down syndrome have distinct physical characteristics, usually they are more similar to the average person than they are different. There have been many theories developed to attempt to explain the cause of Down syndrome but the answer is not known.

The estimated incidence of Down syndrome is between 1 in 1,000 live births. Each year approximately 3,000 to 5,000 children are born with this chromosome disorder. People with Down are in need of the same kind of medical care as other people. There are certain situations when children with Down syndrome need special attention.
1. 60 to 80% of people with Down syndrome will have hearing deficits. Make sure that periodic hearing exams are performed.
2. 40-45% of children with Down syndrome will have congenital heart disease.
3. Intestinal abnormalities also occur at a higher frequency and may need to be surgically corrected at birth.
4. People with Down syndrome may have more eye problems. Periodic eye exams are important.
5. Obesity is often noted during adolescence and early adulthood. Appropriate nutritional counseling is advised.
6. 15-20% of people with Down syndrome will have thyroid problems. It is important to identify the thyroid problems early since hypothyroid problems can be treated.
7. Skeletal problems like kneecap subluxation, hip dislocation, and atlantoaxial instability (the first two neck bones are not well aligned because of the presence of loose ligaments) are more common.
8. Other important medical problems should be addressed as well including: leukemia, Alzheimer's disease, immune system concerns, seizure disorders, sleep apnea, and skin disorders.

Today the good news is that early intervention programs and special education strategies have demonstrated that people with Down syndrome can participate in many learning experiences that can positively enhance their lives. The experiences should assist the person in obtaining a feeling of self-respect and enjoyment as is true with anyone.

About Chris Burke
Doctors advised his parents Frank and Marian Burke to put their newborn son in an institution. The Burkes ignored the advice, and treated Chris the same as their other children. That decision which was made more than 33 years ago led to a remarkably talented life. Chris is best known for his role as Corky Thathcer on the ABC-TV series “Life Goes On” which earned him a Golden Globe nomination. Most recently Chris can be seen as Taylor on the CBS-TV series “Touched by an Angel”.

This success then led Chris to publish his autobiography, A Special Kind of Hero, in 1992. He filmed a public service announcement with President Bush, and marched in President Clinton’s inaugural parade. He has receive 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 guest starring roles on shows like “Jonathan, The Boy Nobody Wanted”, “The Commish”, and the ABC mini-series “Heaven and Hell”.
December 1998 Interview with Chris Burke

1. What is it like for you living with Down syndrome?
Having Down syndrome is like being born normal. I am just like you and you are just like me. We are all born in different ways, that is the way I can describe it. I have a normal life.

2. Is there anything that you can’t do that you wished you could do?
Oh Boy! That is a good question. Laughs...... (he could not think of anything).

3. What is something that you have done in your life that you are the most proudest of?
To have my fan club. I am very proud of doing everything. I try to support my parents, friends and fans. I am also proud of my performing in the visual arts, and motion television.

4. Who do you consider a role model in acting?
Tom Hanks and Michael Landon

5. Who did you like the most of all the people you have met?
Marie Osmond, I met her in Ashley Johnson’s dressing room who played her daughter in the TV show “Maybe This Time”. I said to myself, I can’t believe it, this is a dream of mine, because I remember Donny and Marie very well.

6. Who are some people that you have enjoyed working with?
Kelly Martin, I watch her on ER every Thursday night. I want the chance to get to play her brother again.

7. Where did you first start singing?
In the shower.......... ha, ha, ha, ha. I was like Gene Kelly, it was called singing in the rain. No seriously, I wasn’t really born with a singing voice, but my friends Joe and John taught me how to sing.

8. What advice do you have for parents with children born with Down syndrome?
Don’t give up on the child. Give the child an education. Give them daily love.

9. Who are you dying to meet?
Will Smith

10. What are some of your goals?
To do theater and I am looking forward to doing more Television and Movies. I also want to direct some plays in theater workshops for people with disabilities.

11. What is the next thing that you are going to do?
I am going to see a movie starring Will Smith.

Comments from Dr. Beth Milligan

It is truly important that society develop attitudes that will permit people with Down syndrome to participate in life to the fullest and to be accepted as human beings. Every attempt should be made to preserve their human dignity. Chris Burke has demonstrated that when treated with dignity, people with Down syndrome can provide society with the most valuable influences of all; love, kindness and friendship.

Chris is my friend. We share many of the same interests and see the world through similar eyes. When I spend time with him I truly forget that he was born with Down syndrome. If you have the chance to meet someone like Chris, please get to know them and you too will gain a new friend.

References
Articles by Sigfried M. Pueschel, M.D. on Down Syndrome
Health Care Guidelines for Individuals with Down Syndrome, Down Syndrome Quarterly, Volume 1, Number 2, June, 1996

Links of Interest:
Down Syndrome: Health Issues by Len Leshin, M.D.
http://www.ds-health.com/
National Down Syndrome Society
http://www.ndss.org/