Traveling with Tourette Syndrome: Tips and Tricks

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February 21, 2024
7:00 pm
 – 8:00 pm
 EDT

Join us for a panel discussion on how individuals with Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders can enhance their travel experience safely and comfortably while navigating the airport and being on an airplane.

Our amazing panelists will include a Transportation Security Manager and father of children with TS, as well as a current Rising Leader. They will share tips and tricks on how to self-advocate, communicate and disclose TS with security personnel, in flight attendants, and other fellow travelers to ensure a smooth travel experience. Learn about TAA resources and national programs that can support individuals with disabilities!

Speakers

eric ji
Eric Ji Bio

Eric Ji, TAA Rising Leader

Eric Ji was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at 9 years old and trained to be a Rising Leader with the TAA in 2023. He is currently a senior at the University of Michigan pursuing a B.S. in Biopsychology. Outside of school, Eric enjoys spending time with friends, running, and reading. 

sawabini2
Nicholas Sawabini Bio

Nicholas Sawabini, Transportation Security Manager 

Nicholas (Nick) Sawabini is a Transportation Security Manager (TSM) at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW). In this role, he manages screening checkpoints that are central to TSA objectives that serve to protect the traveling public by preventing any deadly or dangerous objects from being transported onto an aircraft.  Prior to his selection as TSM, he served as Supervisor Transportation Security Officer (STSO) from 2005-2018, a Lead Transportation Security Officer (LTSO) from 2003-2005, and a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) from 2002-2003. During his time as an Officer, Nick served on multiple committees, and participated in supporting initiatives that helped improve TSA. In 2023, Nick received the Diversity and Inclusion Yearly Award for TSA at DTW.  Nick holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University in Telecommunications, with a Business Cognate. He is married to Meranda a Registered Nurse (RN), and a proud father of quadruplets (Sophia, Gabriella, Nicholas, and Noah). His son Noah, and daughter Gabriella both have Tourette Syndrome. While navigating all that Tourette Syndrome encompasses Nick found himself advocating not only for his children, but the entire Tourette’s community.