Born with spinal muscular atrophy, a progressive neuromuscular disease, Shane Burcaw has been battling a weakening body since birth. Early on, he discovered that approaching his problems with a sense of humor made them much easier to deal with and overcome. He brings his "Choosing Happiness" lecture to campus at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 2, at the Perkins Student Center Auditorium. This event is free and open to the public.
Burcaw grew up in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Moravian College with a degree in English. His uplifting memoir, "Laughing at my Nightmare," was shortlisted for the ALA Excellence in Nonfiction Award. His blog by the same name about the humor of living with spinal muscular atrophy has more than half a million followers. He also writes as a freelancer for The Morning Call.
With a spirited, humorous approach, Burcaw will discuss why people need a positive outlook. Whether they are students dealing with the stress of homework and the struggle to fit in or professionals managing deadlines and the pressure to succeed, a positive mindset and a little humor can make these challenges easier to overcome.
Penn State Berks reserves the right to limit the photography and/or recording of any program. The permitted or prohibited activities during a particular program will be announced at the beginning of the event and/or be included in the printed program. All media requesting interviews and/or access to photographs and/or footage of any program must contact the Office of University Relations at 610-396-6053.
This presentation is part of the Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.