Overview

• Kirby died on July 11 at the University of Vermont Medical Center after a two-month battle with esophageal, kidney and bladder complications compounded by infections.
• Born with spina bifida in Burlington, Vermont, he later overcame throat cancer before losing his larynx to treatment and communicated through writing and gestures.
• He earned state gymnastics titles in high school and excelled in swimming and skiing before a 20-year career at IBM demonstrated his professional acumen.
• He brought authentic disability representation to Hollywood with roles such as Walt in 2001’s Shallow Hal, Phil Rupp in 2003’s Stuck on You and a 2005 episode of Carnivàle.
• Survived by his mother and six siblings, Kirby remained a familiar sight on his three-wheeled bike and inspired many with his motto, “You don’t have to stand up to stand out.”