Actor Burke reveals how he overcame obstacles
By Lauren Beck
News Writer
Actor Chris Burke knows first hand the challenges that disabled individuals face, but he also knows about overcoming such obstacles.
"I was challenged from the day I was born, and I learned at an early age to keep trying," Burke said, who played Corky on the television show "Life Goes On."
When Burke was born with Down Syndrome, doctors told his parents the things he would never do, he said in a lecture Thursday about his experience with a disability. But Burke's parents fought for a better life for him, and they passed down their strength to him.
"If people say I can't do something, I try even harder; that's my focus on life," he said.
Burke said his parents and siblings played a significant role in his success.
"They always did what was best for me and gave me their undivided attention. They encouraged me in all facets of my life," he said.
Burke's parents were more hesitant, however, when their son announced his plan to become an actor. They tried to dissuade him from pursuing a career in Hollywood, but Burke said he never gave up on his dreams.
Eventually his parents respected his independence and supported his decision. "That's how my dreams came true — we all worked together," he said.
Next on the agenda for Burke was to help other individuals with disabilities who faced similar difficulties. He has become a spokesperson for people with the disability through his involvement with the National Down Syndrome Society as editor-in-chief of the group's magazine "News and Views."
"It makes me happy to give people my time and love. I like to give because I was given so much. Everything has worked out so well for me," he said.
Burke argued for equality and independence for disabled people. He said he believed in the value of education, citing his own middle and high school experiences that helped promote his inclusion.
"When it came to education, my parents made sure I had the very best," he said.
Disabled people should also be given the opportunity to succeed in careers, said Burke.
"We are entitled to good jobs and good pay, so that we can take care of ourselves and be independent," he said.
He emphasized the need for people with disabilities to work in the real world and interact in the community.
Burke recognized the hardships that accompanied the fight for acceptance.
"I must work hard so that I may be able to live a perfect life ... We must be persistent and get others to give us a chance," he said.
People do not confront their disabilities alone, however.
"People must assist us along the way, to guide us and help us see the right way to achieve things," said Burke.
As an advocate for disability awareness, Burke said he believed college students were sensitive and willing to help disabled people face their challenges.
Ultimately, Burke urged his audience to remember that people who have disabilities also have abilities.
"Believe in us as we believe in ourselves," he said. "Help us make our dreams come true."
Best Buddies and Howard Hall sponsored Burke's speech as a part of Disability Awareness Week.
All News Stories for Friday, February 22, 2002
