Andy and Eddie Burke

The Arc of Florida announces republishing the book Three Fields (brothers) with an additional viewpoint based in Southwest Florida. The Arc of Florida works with local, state, and national partners. It advocates for local chapters, public policies, and high-quality supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to be fully included in all aspects of their community.

Three Fields (brothers) is a true story written by Anderson (Andy) Burke and outlines his family’s journey. In 1959, Eddie Burke was born with Down syndrome. Medical professionals advised placing Eddie in a state institution. Forty-six years later, Andy discovers the journals of his recently deceased mother. These journals document the pain of giving up her third son and the effect this had on the family. Andy set out to find and meet his lost sibling. Andy was neighbors with Kathy Jackson, Executive Director of The Arc of the St. Johns, and as their friendship grew, she asked him to tell his story. His brother was a client at The Arc of the St. Johns.

In the new edition, Three Fields (A Brother. A Sister.), Dick Bradley’s account is added. Bradley tells the story of his sister, Kathy, also with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with a completely different outcome. His story is one of love and happiness within the family dynamic. Bradley’s sister was a client at LARC (Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens) in Fort Myers for many years. His parents, Dr. Jim Bradley and Ann Bradley, were early supporters of LARC. His brother Roger was the executive director for thirty-one years, and his brother Brian is now a member of the LARC board of directors.

Kathy and Dick Bradley

Established in 1954, LARC is a training center for success for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. LARC serves more than 300 individuals annually, and participants range from 14 to 80. LARC offers vocational training, community residential services, and a vast array of other state-of-the-art community inclusion services on a full-time, year-round basis. LARC’s main campus is located at 2570 Hanson Street, Fort Myers. LARC also operates two Residential Group Homes in Cape Coral and Fort Myers.

“With so many similarities between Andy, Dick, and their respective families, Three Fields (A Brother. A Sister.) is a gripping story which conveys the importance of support and acceptance for every family,” said Angela Katz, LARC’s Executive Director. “The Bradley family paved the way for many families with children with disabilities. It is exciting that their story is being told.”

“Families need to know that if a child is born with an intellectual and developmental disability, their life will add value to the family, those around that child, and the community,” stated The Arc of Florida CEO Alan Abramowitz. “Our goal has always been to advocate for families.”

Pre-sales are available now, with a release date of October 15. Click here for additional information, or bulk orders, contact Dina Justice at 850-485-2155.