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december tc 2021
As we near the end of another unparalleled year, the team at the Tourette Association of America (TAA) has been reflecting on the work that has been accomplished. The global events of last year pushed us to rethink how we can better increase awareness for Tourette Syndrome (TS) and address the most pressing issues facing our community. In 2021 the TAA focused on a path of growth stemming from those efforts.
october tc 2021
October is a mega-month for our community and for the Tourette Association of America. Together we celebrate National Bullying Prevention Month, ADHD Awareness Month and OCD Awareness Week. I say celebrate because it is a wonderful thing that we can reflect on past struggles that have effected real and lasting change. For those of us who have endured any and all of those conditions, we also know the burden and weight they can bring. It is why we keep shining light on the important efforts of the TAA and our community partners so that everyone can feel supported and understood.
sept TC
Recently our country celebrated a monumental milestone – 20 years since the tragedy, bravery, and heroism of 9/11. It’s hard to believe that so much time has passed, because like many of you, I remember my precise whereabouts, thoughts, and feelings from that day. Each year we pay tribute, as we will truly #neverforget. Throughout the posts on our social feeds, there was a sense of unity and solidarity in our respects for the day, but I also read many remarks about the impact it had on our community. For some, the stress, fear and anxiety caused tics to skyrocket. For others, it was the first indication that what they were experiencing was tics and they needed to consult a doctor. This continued reflection of the last 20 years has underscored how far resources and support have come for us in the TS community. One thing remains, we are all in this together.
sabchair
The Tourette Association of America (TAA) is thrilled to announce Dr. John Piacentini as the new co-chair of the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). Dr. Piacentini is currently director of the TAA Center of Excellence UCLA Child OCD Anxiety and Tic Disorders Program (Psychiatry). As a well-respected doctor with his robust involvement in neurodiverse conditions, Dr. Piacentini is a valued leader who will be joining Dr. Aryn Gittis as SAB co-chair.
july tc 2021
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! 
tc may 2021
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.
general what are tics scaled
The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 0.3% of children age 6 – 17 years in the United States have received a diagnosis of Tourette syndrome (about 148,000 children), but some reviews put this number as high as 0.9%.  At least half of children with this condition remain undiagnosed, a somber fact given the potential for significant adverse psychosocial impacts from this neurodevelopmental condition. TS is poorly understood amongst both the lay and physician community, leading to both misconceptions and stigmatization of individuals suffering from this treatable disorder.