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josh_burgerHello. Many people have questions about me, Joshua Burger. Here’s my story:  I was born December 4, 1990. I have a condition called Ateleosteogenesis Syndrome Type III. There are only a handful of cases recorded and four or five survivors in the world.

When I was a 41/2-month-old fetus, ultrasound testing showed me to be “abnormal.” My parents were encouraged to abort me, as “he would not live anyway”.

Abortion was not the answer for them (or me!) But like many who discuss philosophically what is right and wrong, my parents never for a moment thought that they would ever face this decision in reality.

Two beliefs strengthened them. First, that life begins at conception and that it is not anyone’s prerogative to end it, however brief it is. Second, they believe that the quality of a life is not for anyone to judge, whether it is a mental or physical impairment. There are many instances of children and adults beating the odds, not only to survive, but also to thrive and contribute to society. They just couldn’t give up hope.  “This fetus is going to die anyway,” said the experts. “You are going to suffer physically, emotionally, and financially much longer if you don’t act now. We’re only thinking of your best interests.”

It is true. There is a price to pay. I have survived two seizures, two surgeries, five hospitalizations, a choking, and respiratory arrest twice, helped only by my Dads rescue breathing for me. I am on constant oxygen and medications for life.

My parents say they have also survived the joy of my smile, watching me learn to roll and change direction with my feet, watching me learn to walk on my knees, and seeing me hear for the first time. They say I am funny and smart and make people smile. They have seen me grow and overcome so much that their best hopes are realized.

We all endure the stares and the questions because giving me my life was the right decision, then and now.

I am in middle school and doing well. I am confident and am very happy. I really enjoy making others laugh. Girls like me, too.

My parents proudly say they would not change me even if they could. They think that I am perfect just the way God made me. They also say that God smiled when He formed me and that He wrapped their blessing in disguise. Wow!

John 3:16. Look it up, read it, the answers are all there.



Jo*********@sb*******.net











josh_burgerAs a 4 ½ month old fetus Josh Burger’s parents were encouraged to abort him.  Almost 14 years later Josh has overcome the odds and recently raised enough money to sponsor 50 wheelchairs.  After receiving a special motorized wheelchair from the Rotary Club in Pleasanton, California, Josh was inspired by their kindness and generosity.  He wanted to help others experience the same freedom and mobility that a wheelchair provides.  The Wheelchair Foundation would like to thank Josh and all those who have helped in raising the funds necessary to sponsor 50 wheelchairs.

Below is a question and answer interview with Josh Burger.

1. How did you first hear about the Wheelchair Foundation?

 

When I went to the White House Christmas Party last year, I met Mrs. Cheryl Barnes, Director of Wheelchair Foundation Washington D.C., and she told me about what the foundation does.

 

2. What made you want to help raise funds so other people who need wheelchairs could receive them?

 

The Rotary Club in Pleasanton California gave me an electric wheelchair and it has changed my life. I wanted to help others to experience the same thing.

 

3. How did you raise the funds? Did you work with individual fundraising, church, social groups or professional groups?

 

Every summer, our church (Valley Community Church, 4455 Del Valle Parkway, Pleasanton, CA 94566) sponsors Vacation Bible School for kids ages K-5. We always take on a mission project. This year they wanted to buy soccer balls for needy kids but my mother and I suggested that we raise money for the wheelchairs. They got excited because it made a difference in my life and I would be able to share my story. We also showed the kids one of the videos from the Wheelchair Foundation. I think it really helped the kids realize what we were trying to accomplish.

 

4. How much did you raise?

 

$3,750.00

 

5. When did you raise these funds? Date:

 

7/12-7/16, 2004

 

6. How did it make you feel to be able to raise funds so other people could get wheelchairs?

 

It made me feel really, really happy knowing that it’s going to change the lives of many people.

 

7. If you had a chance to speak with Mr. Behring, the chairman of the Wheelchair Foundation, what would you like to say to him?

 

Thank you very much for using your money to help so many people. I think you are pretty special and an awesome man.

 

8. Do you have plans to work with the Wheelchair Foundation in the future?

 

Yes. I care about other people who don’t have any wheelchairs.

 

9. Tell us the story behind your fundraising. What was your original goal, did you meet that goal or surpass the goal?

 

Our original goal was ten wheelchairs (according to the adults) but I said forty! They thought that was way too big a goal, but I believed. And we got exactly 50!

 

10. How did other people respond to your efforts to raise money and awareness for wheelchairs?

 

They were so enthusiastic, especially when I came out on stage in the actual wheelchair.

 

11. What was the best part of working with the Wheelchair Foundation?

 

Counting the money. Meeting the staff. Visiting the auto museum was really cool!

 

12. What would you tell other people who are thinking about working with the Wheelchair Foundation.

 

Just do it!

 

For more information about Josh’s life story, please click here.