Bayside, NY – November 20, 2024: The Tourette Association of America (TAA) hosted its largest fundraising event of the year, the Tourette Association of America Gala, this past Monday, November 18th. Through ticket sales, donations, and the silent auction, the Gala raised hundreds of thousands of dollars in vital funds that will directly support important TAA initiatives such as offering transformative programs, advocating for the community, leading groundbreaking research, and providing essential support to everyone impacted by Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders.
The evening’s emcee was Jonathan Stenvall, Executive Producer of The Backstage Experience on FOX Television and iHeart Radio, and TS advocate. Attendees included prominent voices from the TS community, such as Baylen Dupree (social media star); Craig Elgin (social media star the ‘Tourette’s Cop’); Quincy Roche (NFL Linebacker, Baltimore Ravens); Aidy Smith (TV Personality, Host of The Three Drinkers on Amazon Prime, and TAA Global Ambassador); and Jumaane Williams (Public Advocate, New York City).
“The Tourette Association of America’s Gala is a testament to the strength of our community,” said Amanda Talty, President and CEO of the TAA. “Each year, we come together at Gala to raise funds that will ensure the TAA continues to serve as a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience for individuals living with Tourette Syndrome and other Tic disorders. Our community’s continued support is a true confirmation to the extraordinary things extraordinary people can achieve when they fight together.”
At the core of the evening’s presentation was an inspiring message from Amanda Talty, President & CEO of the TAA. She highlighted the remarkable progress made over the past 50 years in advancing the understanding and treatment of TS and Tic Disorders. Amanda also emphasized the critical need to sustain this momentum to improve the lives of everyone living with tics.
New this year was the presentation of the Unsung Hero Award to Matthew DiCarlo and Carsen Nepomuceno, who represent hundreds of thousands of everyday heroes who go out of their way to support people living with TS and other Tic Disorders. Chayse Hevesi was honored with the 2024 Youth Award for her impactful work as a TAA Youth Ambassador, including delivering community presentations, speaking at conferences, and advocating for TS awareness locally and nationally.
To learn more about Tourette Syndrome, get involved with the TAA, and donate, please visit Tourette.org/donate.
ABOUT THE TOURETTE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA:
Founded in 1972, the Tourette Association of America (TAA) is the only national organization serving the Tourette Syndrome (TS) and Tic Disorder community. The TAA works tirelessly to raise awareness, advance research, and provide ongoing support to individuals and families impacted by Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders. The TAA directs a network of 31 chapters, 83 support groups, and recognizes 29 Centers of Excellence nationwide. The TAA is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Learn more about Tourette Syndrome, Tic Disorders, and the TAA at tourette.org.
ABOUT TOURETTE SYNDROME AND OTHER TIC DISORDERS:
TS is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects children, adolescents, and adults. The condition is characterized by sudden, involuntary movements and/or sounds called tics. Tics can range from mild/inconsequential to moderate and severe and are disabling in some cases. TS is one type of Tic Disorder and tics are the primary symptom of a group of childhood-onset neurological conditions known collectively as Tic Disorders. According to the Federal Department of Justice, Tourette Syndrome is a disability covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
FAST FACTS ABOUT TOURETTE SYNDROME:
- According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 50 school-aged children live with TS or another Persistent Tic Disorder. It is estimated that 50% are undiagnosed.
- 48% of adults and 23% of children impacted by TS or another Tic Disorder have considered suicide at some point in their lives. 27% of adults and 10% of children reported attempting suicide in 2021-2022.
- 73% of adults and 50% of children impacted have felt discriminated against.
- 87% of adults and 72% of children experience physical pain because of their tics.
- Coprolalia is the uncontrolled utterance of obscene or offensive language. While it’s a misconception that most people living with TS experience coprolalia, it can severely affect those who do.
