Burcaw embraces challenges with humor and honesty
Shane Burcaw, author of the book “Not So Different: What you Really Want to Ask About Having a Disability,” spoke to students and staff at Riddle and Arland D. Williams Jr. elementary schools Wednesday. Burcaw read his book to students. Students were given an opportunity to ask Burcaw questions following Burcaw's presentation. Burcaw honestly and often humorously answered a variety of questions from students about his life and some of his challenges, his wheelchair, his relationship with his friends, his fiance Hannah and his family members and his activities and hobbies. Burcaw, who was born with spinal muscular atrophy, was asked by a student if he had the opportunity to find a cure or heal himself would he pursue it and Burcaw quickly answered no. Despite the challenges, Burcaw emphasized all the positives about his life.
Burcaw’s book has been nominated for both the Monarch (K-3) and Bluestem (4-5) Illinois Young Reader Choice Awards. Burcaw writes and blogs about his life with a disability to educate readers with messages of positivity and humor. He co-founded a nonprofit organization that aims to teach children that all people deserve kindness and respect, regardless of their differences and provides equipment grants to those living with muscular dystrophy. Burcaw's visit is funded by Mattoon's Families First Title One Program and the school libraries.
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