Since our daughter’s shattering diagnosis of Tourette’s Syndrome, we are passionate about raising awareness for this horrible condition which sadly affects so many families across the world. There is still so much to understand about Tourette’s and there is no cure or medication to give the sufferers relief from the constant tics and twitches. Tourette’s always comes with extra neuro-spicy conditions such as ADHD and OCD, which makes it all even more complex- however, medical help is hard to find because there are so few specialists around.

Tourette’s Action is a fantastic organisation which gives invaluable support to these families trying to navigate this condition.

The following poem, written by a 12-year-old girl whose little sister suffers from Tourette’s, sums it all up so beautifully:

Tourette syndrome, a condition misunderstood,

A disorder that often goes unseen and un-good.

Tics and twitches, a constant disruption,

A life lived with constant interruption.

The words that slip, unbidden and loud,

The movements that draw unwanted crowd.

The stares and judgment that follow close,

A life lived with unrelenting dose.

The struggle to control the urges that come,

The effort to keep the tics at bay, burdensome.

The moments of relief, few and far between,

A life lived with an ever-present scream.

It may feel like a block, in a brick wall.

Yet in the midst of all this strife,

There is strength and resilience that comes to life.

For those with Tourette's know a struggle most do not,

And they face it head-on, with courage and thought.

The support of loved ones, a crucial aid,

A reminder that in this journey, they are not alone or betrayed.

For in their differences, there is beauty and grace,

A life lived with challenges, but with a unique pace.

So let us see beyond the tics and twitches,

And see the person, with all their strengths and niches.

For in their struggles, there is a story untold,

Of perseverance, courage, and a spirit so bold It’s gold.

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