The bootable "portion" of a CD is just something that already boots. For example, I can take a Win98 system startup floppy and use that to make a bootable CD.
So, make a bootable floppy and your friend with the burner should be able to make a bootable CD based on the contents of the bootable floppy.
[ shameless plug ]
I already have a bootable CD image available on my web site. look in my profile.
[ /shameless plug ]
-SUO