Hello,
My name is Chris Burke. I played a character named “Corky” on the ABC-TV series Life Goes On. It was a show about parents who happen to have a son with Down syndrome. In real life, I was also born with a disability. I am now the National Down Syndrome Society’s Goodwill Ambassador and I work in their New York City office.
World Down Syndrome Day is an opportunity to celebrate abilities and not focus on disabilities. I went through a lot of obstacles in school – I had to work extra hard because of my disability – but I never gave up. I became a school reporter, student of the year and I was involved in talent shows. Then I worked hard to be an actor on a TV show. I have won awards, worked with celebrities, met presidents and learned from all different types of people.
People with Down syndrome have feelings – just like anybody else – and we care about other people. All we want is to be respected and treated just like anybody else. My message is that World Down Syndrome Day is a chance for you to take a minute to learn from your friends and classmates who have Down syndrome or different abilities than you do. We can all learn from each other.
Happy World Down Syndrome Day!
Sincerely,
Chris Burke
NDSS Goodwill Ambassador