Jennifer Khedaroo, Author at Tourette Association of America

I am sitting at my desk, quietly getting some work done, while I watch the time pass by. Suddenly, I begin to get a rising urge. I try to tell my brain to calm down and take some deep breaths but that does not push the feeling of compulsion away. It is starting to count down like an alarm in my brain. Finally, I give in and shake my head several times, only calming down when I get a feeling of satisfaction.

July 26, 2021

TouretteConnect: Opportunities and Commitment

https://tourette.org/july-tc/

Summer is in full-swing and there is so much to take advantage of – nice weather and safely spending time with friends and family. If you are a fan of soccer, it was an exceptional time of celebration recently. While watching, the familiar face of Tim Howard appeared on-screen as he reported on the game. Often referred to as the greatest American goalkeeper of all time, he is also an inspirational role model within our community for his candidness about his personal struggle with Tourette Syndrome (TS). This October, Tim is a Gala Honoree, alongside Nick Iadevaio, Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion at L'Oréal USA, and Michael A. Bamberger, Senior Counsel for Dentons US LLP. Immediately following the Gala is an affordable and exclusive After Party convening young professionals, thought leaders and leading executives to socialize and network in a relaxed environment!

July 15, 2021

TouretteConnect: Reflecting Back and Looking Forward

https://tourette.org/touretteconnect-reflecting-back-and-looking-forward/

We've come to a close on another Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month! Leading the month-long effort was the second virtual Tourette Conference, which was a resounding success. I am delighted to report that over 3,000 individuals from around the globe attended to strengthen their knowledge of TS and Tic Disorders.

July 8, 2021

The Increasing Severity of My Tourette Syndrome

https://tourette.org/the-increasing-severity-of-my-tourette-syndrome/

The COVID-19 pandemic has definitely caused a drastic decrease in social interactions, whether it may be in a school setting or in public. Initially, I thought that could be a beneficial break for kids across the world like me with Tourette’s Syndrome. Ever since the official start of the pandemic in March 2020, I’ve noticed a dramatic increase in the frequency and severity of my own tics.

June 29, 2021

Supporting Your Children’s Transition Back to School Post-Pandemic

https://tourette.org/supporting-your-childrens-transition-back-to-school-post-pandemic/

Join Patty Mendoza, M.S., on August 19, 2021, at 7pm EST as she reviews ways to help support children with Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders. Patty will review ways to develop a working relationship with the school, strategies that children can use to cope effectively with symptoms, management strategies available, and school systems in place to help your children be successful.

June 17, 2021

How a Hamden Teen with Tourette Syndrome Grew up to be a Prominent Community Leader

https://tourette.org/justin-farmer/

It was like trying to suppress a sneeze. The tension would build up, making him uncomfortable and uneasy until the inevitable conclusion – the involuntary uttering of a nonsense phrase, maybe, or the sudden jutting of his arms. That’s how Justin Farmer, a 26-year-old Hamden councilman, described the symptoms of Tourette syndrome that led to a rocky stretch in his late teens.

June 2, 2021

Tourette Syndrome and the COVID-19 Vaccine: Ask the Expert

https://tourette.org/tourette-syndrome-and-the-covid-19-vaccine-ask-the-expert/

The Coronavirus pandemic has led to one of the most challenging years many of us have ever experienced. As the world begins to safely reopen, there are a number of questions regarding the COVID-19 vaccines. Join Dr. Michael Okun, Chair of Neurology and Executive Director of the Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at the University of Florida Health College of Medicine, on Wednesday, June 23 at 3 pm EST for a Facebook Live discussing the vaccines, exploring the impact on the Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorder community, addressing myths surrounding the vaccines, and examining the future of the new normal.

May 25, 2021

Physical Activity Reduces My Tics

https://tourette.org/physical-activity-reduces-my-tics/

As I make my putt on the 18th green and jump back into the cart to drive to the clubhouse, I marvel to myself Wow, I don’t think I had any tics during that session. Throughout the ride home, I excitedly report to my parents not only how I played, but also about the fact that I didn’t notice any symptoms of my Tourette Syndrome.

May 24, 2021

TouretteConnect: Tourette Awareness Month

https://tourette.org/touretteconnect-tourette-awareness-month/

Happy Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month! It is my favorite time of year, with exciting programs and awareness initiatives for all. What I love most is our community coming together in monumental ways to lift each other up through stories, togetherness, and local communities lit up Teal in the name of Tourette Awareness. We recently shared a powerful video that showcases the realities of the condition as well as the physical and psychological impact. In collaboration with AIST Onlus Associazione Italiana Sindrome di Tourette, we discussed the heightened need for awareness on a global scale and how kindness, compassion and knowledge can go great lengths.

May 20, 2021

It Doesn’t Help

https://tourette.org/it-doesnt-help/

A poem about Tourette Syndrome by ninth-grade student Bianca Natoni.

For Myself

For Someone I Know

Through My Profession