Chargers send football, recovery wishes

The San Diego Chargers have joined Fallbrook residents in encouraging former Fallbrook Warrior and University of San Diego football player Adam Burke in his recovery from an assault that took place in San Diego November 1, 2006. Last Thursday, the Chargers gifted Burke with a brand new Wilson NFL football complete with the signatures of 20 of the team’s players. Burke, who suffered extensive damage to his face, jaw and mouth in the attack, is responding well to treatment but is expected to endure another nine to 12 months before full recovery.

When surprised with the football on January 11 in Fallbrook, Burke said, “It’s overwhelming. I love Fallbrook, just for the people. It’s just amazing what people can do to lift you up.” Joined by longtime Fallbrook football supporters and Chargers fans Sam Logan (Major Market), Erika and Dan Feltham (Coldwell Banker Landmark Group) and his mother, Jan Burke, Adam embraced the gift with enthusiasm.

“Our very gracious San Diego Chargers heard about Adam Burke’s assault in San Diego and responded so kindly,” said Erika, the local dental hygienist and football fan who contacted the Chargers about Adam’s experience. “We give many, many thanks to Coach Marty Schottenheimer and Laney McCown, the Chargers’ Charitable and Community Relations director.”

Adam was humbled by the gesture from the professional team and the individuals who coordinated the effort from Fallbrook.

“It’s neat to be a part of that [Fallbrook hometown] feel,” he said. “All the support my family and I have received is something special.” Local residents and business have been sending contributions to a fund established to assist the family with Adam’s medical bill. That, in addition to the arrival of the Chargers football, along with his continued healing process, has Adam feeling rejuvenated and feeling like life is starting to get back to normal.

Adam was recently able to move back to his apartment near the University of San Diego and although the injury caused him to have to withdraw from classes for the first semester of this school year, he will resume his education soon.

Meanwhile, Detective Sergeant Tom Poulin of the Santee Sheriff’s Department said a potential suspect has been identified in the attack against Burke and they are in the process of making a positive identification.

“I start back to school [senior year at USD] on January 29,” Burke said. “The pain is gone for now and I’m very thankful. I am back to work and my day-to-day life is getting back to normal.” Adam is in the process of securing a business degree from USD with an emphasis in economics and finance.

Between working for Sunset Parking and attending college, Adam says he usually gets a chance to come home to Fallbrook once a month or so.

“It’s great to come home and be received with open arms,” he says.

Editor’s Note: To date, Adam has undergone four root canals; his maxillary bone has been re-set; his upper jaw has been re-aligned; and his upper teeth have been banded in braces. He has had three extractions as well as some cosmetic work done on the remaining teeth. He currently faces more dental work that includes bone grafts and implants.

A fund for contributions toward his recovery is still open at Washington Mutual Bank, 1091 S. Mission Road, Fallbrook, CA 92028. Checks can be made out to Janet L. Burke/FBO Adam M. Burke (account number 3132785144).