On Jan 22, 2025, a wrestling event titled ‘Meet for Mac’ was hosted by DGS wrestling in honor of former member Cormac Burke who passed away five years ago. All of the event’s proceeds went to the Cormac Hank Burke Scholarship Fund which supports people with substance use disorders.
Special services department chair and former head wrestling coach Sean Lovelace talked on his experiences with former DGS graduate and wrestler Cormac Burke.
“Cormac struggled with anxiety, depression and addiction, five years ago, Cormac lost that battle. His mom Maggie, has created the Cormac Hank Burke Scholarship Fund so we can help others,” said Lovelace.
Lovelace continues his words about Burke.
“I can still see it in his eyes that he was just battling so hard. He just always had so much care for others. After he passed teammates and kids from school lined up to say so many positive things about Cormac and how special he made them feel, how much he cared about them,” said Lovelace.
Burke’s mother Maggie Burke shared some heartfelt words about her son.
“He brought a gentle humanity, and he brought gentle humanity to the face of his struggles. He fought courageously, sometimes silently, sometimes with the help of others. These battles are, as Sean said, are very hard to fight and sometimes not easily won,” Maggie Burke said.
Maggie Burke continued to express her admiration for her beloved son.
“He wanted people to know first and foremost, that he was just an ordinary guy who struggled with some things. He wanted to be treated no differently,” said Maggie Burke.
Maggie Burke reflected on the love and resources that the Downers Grove community shares with its high school students.
“No matter how bad you are hurting, never be afraid to reach out. Trust your support system and continue to connect. You are worthy of happiness and peace, and so is he,” said Maggie Burke.
