A Full Circle Moment: A Special Memory with Chris Burke Reunites at GiGi’s Gala

At GiGi’s Playhouse Fort Myers, the annual Gala is always a celebration of connection, community, and the incredible individuals who make up our Playhouse family. This year, that spirit came to life in the most beautiful way through a touching exchange between one of our dedicated families and a pair of special Gala guests. 

Annamaria and her son Parker are no strangers to GiGi’s Playhouse. Their journey with Down syndrome began over 21 years ago, and like many parents navigating a new diagnosis, Annamaria remembers the early days with a mix of emotion—uncertainty, love, hope, and the need for support. That’s why a moment from February 2005 remains so vivid in her heart. Seated at a table with JR and Betsy—sibling of actor and advocate Chris Burke, best known for his groundbreaking role as Corky on Life Goes On—Annamaria couldn’t help but share a heartfelt story from the past. 

That year in 2005, Chris Burke was in Fort Myers for the Buddy Walk. Annamaria and Parker, then just a year old, had the chance to meet Chris in person. She remembers Chris as incredibly kind and warm, especially toward Parker. That interaction, while brief, made a powerful impact. “That moment gave me such hope for my son’s future”. As a new mom on the Down syndrome journey, meeting someone like Chris—who was thriving and beloved—meant everything to her.   

To make the moment even more meaningful, Annamaria and Parker had bid on—and won—Chris Burke’s book; A special Kind of Hero’ in the Gala’s silent auction. Parker proudly posed with signed book before Annamaria began reading it. She found herself deeply moved by Chris’s story and the loving, supportive family behind him. “I made it to Chapter 7 before I had to stop for the night,” she wrote. “I cried and I laughed. And cried and laughed some more. It’s still inconceivable to me how persons with any disability, especially Down Syndrome, used to be treated. I’m eternally grateful for the brave families, such as yours, that understood that every life, however different, is worthy. And especially worthy of LOVE, which is something we all want and need.” 

She went on to share how much Chris’s joyful and outgoing spirit reminded her of Parker’s: the same spark, the same mischief, and the same ability to light up a room. “It brought a smile to my face and a giggle to my heart,” she said. 

This exchange is more than a touching story—it’s a powerful example of the kind of hope and community that GiGi’s Playhouse is all about. The Gala may be one night, but the connections formed, stories shared, and memories honored can last a lifetime. For Annamaria, that single act of kindness from Chris in 2005 planted a seed of hope that grew into years of joy and purpose. And now, with Parker thriving and continuing to shine, the story lives on—through a photo, a book, and a heartfelt thank-you. 

We are honored to be a part of stories like this and are so grateful to Annamaria, Parker, and the Burke family for reminding us all of the powerful ripple effect of kindness and inclusion. We look forward to more connections, more shared moments, and more stories that bring us together—next year and beyond.💙