F.R.I.E.N.D.S. 

 Family Resource Information Education Network for Down Syndrome

Reprinted with permission of The Frederick News Post and 
Randall Family, LLC as published on September 24, 2006.

'Corky' drops in for Down syndrome benefit
By Gina Gallucci
News-Post Staff
ggallucci@fredericknewspost.com

Staff photo by Travis Pratt

(From left, Kathy Sczerzenie, Stephanie Volpe and Lin Volpe clap and sing along to music played by Chris Burke and friends Joe and John deMasi Saturday afternoon at the Baker Park Band Shell.)

FREDERICK -- When Chris Burke took the stage at the Baker Park Band Shell Saturday afternoon, it was to a familiar song.

Mr. Burke, along with bandmates Joe and John deMasi, sang along to the theme song from "Life Goes On" -- the television show that featured his character, Charles "Corky" Thatcher, from 1989 to 1993. The theme song borrowed from the Beatles' tune of the same name.

Mr. Burke was in town to participate in the fifth annual Buddy Walk for Down syndrome, organized by the Family Resource Information and Education Network for Down Syndrome, based in Frederick County.

This is the second time Mr. Burke has come to Frederick. He also participated in the Buddy Walk in 2004.

The Buddy Walk is held at the end of September or during October, which is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month. The walk raises money to support local and national programs and advocate for people with Down syndrome.

"This is our major fundraiser, and we enjoy seeing people in the community come out for a good cause," said Brian Eiker, who is on the FRIENDS board of directors.

Mr. Eiker of Thurmont has two children, Andrew, 10, and Megan, 6, who have Down syndrome.

He said his children always have fun at the event and even have friends from school who come out to support them during the walk.

"The event is to build awareness of Down syndrome and raise money," said Mary Meiklejohn of Boonsboro, whose son Josh, 2, has Down syndrome.

"He loves (the Buddy Walk)," she said. "He runs around all morning."

Ms. Meiklejohn has enjoyed being a part of FRIENDS.

The group is a fellowship, she said. Parents provide information and support to others who are going through similar situations.

Bob Walsh of New Market joined the group about three years ago and is on the board of directors. Nicole, his 4-year-old daughter, has Down syndrome.

He said he likes the group because its members are motivated. They try to raise money and awareness, and show the community how much their children can accomplish.

One aspect Mr. Walsh is excited about is the scholarships the group plans to give out each year at the Buddy Walk. It gave out the first two scholarships this year.

Brittany Fouche and Becky Weikert, who are in college, enrolled in special education programs, each received $1,000.

To be considered, a person must want to pursue a career in special education or have Down syndrome and want to attend college, Mr. Walsh said.

For more information about FRIENDS, go to it's website at www.friendsoffredco.org.

(Reprinted with permission of The Frederick News Post and Randall Family, LLC as published on September 24, 2006.)