Chris Burke

Everybody wants to grow up thinking that they can do anything that they want to in life. In some cases, they are successful, but it takes sheer determination and the desire of caring parents to let a child strive for the top. That sounds fine to most, but when the child has Down Syndrome, the trail looks even more challenging - not so for Chris Burke.

Chris' family was a model for creating a strong sense of self-worth. Chris even began to call Down syndrome "Up syndrome". His enthusiasm for acting in Hollywood became more than a just a phase. Undauntedly, 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 -- and 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 the network executives that the film's producer was asked to write a show with Burke in mind. The critically acclaimed family, drama series Life Goes On earned Chris a Golden Globe nomination, and aired on ABC from 1989-1993. It continues to run on The Family Channel. For years, Chris has been part of helping many American families form a different perspective toward those with Down syndrome, and toward those who have a disability in general.

Chris also had roles in Jonathan, the Boy Nobody Wanted - a TV movie, Heaven and Hell - a TV movie, and The Commish - a TV series. For six seasons he was seen regularly on Touched by an Angel. Doubleday Dell has published his autobiography, A Special Kind of Hero, He has been recognized by Presidents Bush and Clinton, has been the national spokesperson for the American Down Syndrome Association and has been awarded the prestigious "Youth in Film" Award.

For most, their life would be complete with these accomplishments but Chris has always wanted and expected more from himself. Chris now tours the country speaking about his life and those with a disability and he has even created a musical trio which performs music about families, children, disabilities, and love. Chris with musical partners, John and Joe DeMasi are currently producing their third CD.