Day 150: National Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month

From May 15 to June 15, the Tourette Syndrome Association (TSA®)—the only national, voluntary health organization for people with Tourette Syndrome (TS)—joins the hundreds of thousands of families affected by TS to help raise awareness of this baffling disorder during National Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month.

Marked by involuntary body twitching and vocal tics, it is estimated that some 200,000 Americans have the disorder, with millions more manifesting associated conditions. National Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month, which was first established by TSA in 1997, provides an opportunity for the TSA, its chapters and others in the TS community to educate the public about this much misunderstood and misdiagnosed neurological condition.

Throughout the month, local TSA chapters across the country will work to raise awareness, increase education and reduce stigma associated with TS. One such event is Government Relations Awareness Week from May 31 to June 4. During this week, TSA chapters and families hold district meetings with elected officials and community leaders to raise local, state and federal elected officials' awareness of issues impacting families living with Tourette Syndrome.

Tourette's syndrome is a neurobehavioral (brain-based) movement disorder characterized by motor and vocal tics. Beginning in childhood, it causes those affected to make movements and noises they cannot control. Additionally, many are plagued by obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder, oppositional behavior and other disorders. Although medication may help control the symptoms, as of yet there is no cure. The Tourette Syndrome Association of Texas, one of the largest chapters in the country, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. They raise funds to directly assist Texas area families and children in crisis, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

The Tourette Syndrome Association of Texas, as an affiliate of the National Tourette Syndrome Association, strives to improve the quality of life of individuals with Tourette's Syndrome and their families. To this end, they provide on-going community services, practical assistance and support research efforts to cure this devastating disorder.

Donation $5

To support  The Tourette Syndrome Association of Texas, please visit:     http://www.tourettetexas.org/