Category: Teen

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.

With Thanksgiving just a few days away, I’d like to offer a note of thanks and appreciation to each of you. Thank you to our generous donors who have made the Tourette Association of America their charity of choice. It is because of your resolve to make our association a priority, that we are able to deliver essential programming and resources including:

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.

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.

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! 

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.