A Special Kind of Hero

About the Book

Chris Burke became one of America’s favorite personalities when he starred as "Corky" on the hit ABC television series "Life Goes On." Not since Helen Keller has one person so thoroughly changed the way the world views people with disabilities.

Twenty-five years earlier, when Chris was born with Down syndrome, doctors advised his parents to put him in an institution. Instead, they showered him with love, and encouraged him to reach for his dreams.

This is Chris’s story, and the story of his family’s love and determination. Here he tells what it’s really like to grow up with Down syndrome…how he pursued his seemingly impossible show business goals...and how he has dedicated his life to helping people with special needs, especially those with what he calls "Up Syndrome."

Profoundly inspirational, "A Special Kind of Hero" is a triumphant story of courage and hope that proves Chris’ motto: "Obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off your goal."

"A poignant, joyful and inspirational story."
—Literary Guild

"Excellent…fascinating…a realistic portrait of an intriguing individual."
—Down Syndrome News

About the Author