Where Are They Now

Updated: 12/14/2007

Name: Chris Burke

Born: August 26, 1965 in Point Lookout, New York

Claim To Fame: If you know the name Chris Burke then you most definitely know him from his role as Corky Thatcher from the TV series, 'Life Goes On'.

Family Life: Never married

Info: Chris has Down Syndrome. His parents were told to institutionalize him when he was born, but they decided to raise him at home and nurture his talents. He was encouraged to follow his career objectives no matter how untraditional they seemed for a young man with Down Syndrome. His siblings also worked with him. Many were surprised at how healthy and bright Burke was when he entered formal schooling.

Trivia: Used to work as an elevator operator.

First set his sights on becoming a tap dancer. He later switched to acting while at the Don Guanella School. He was further inspired by attending night classes, going through auditions, writing scripts, and reading books.

Tours with his 3-piece folk band.

Is the youngest of 4 children.

Serves as a Goodwill Ambassador for the National Down Syndrome Society and is editor-in-chief of its quarterly magazine.

Where Is He Now: Tours with his 3-piece folk band. He sings with his twin friends, Joe and John DeMasi. They were his music counselors at a camp for persons with disabilities. The band has released several albums. They tour the country. Here is a list of Upcoming Appearances:

January 05, 2008
Making A Difference Anniversary Celebration, the Hamptons, New York
January 22, 2008
Tulare-Kings Right to Life, Visalia, California

March 01, 2008
San Diego D.S.A. Dinner and Dance Gala, San Diego, California

April 06-08, 2008
Help Center-Very Special Arts Talents of the Desert Festival, Jeddah

April 12, 2008
KidsFest at Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina

June 14, 2008
Annual A.G.M. General Meeting, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

September 20, 2008
North Coast Down Syndrome Network Buddy Walk, Seaside, Oregon

September 21, 2008
D.S.N.O. Buddy Walk, Lake Oswego, Oregon

September 27, 2008
D.S.S.A. of Southern Indiana Buddy Walk, New Albany, Indiana

October 09-11, 2008
Indiana Down Syndrome Foundation Buddy Walk, Indianapolis, Indiana