Tourettes Syndrome support group coming to the Crossroads

     Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a complex neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements and vocal outbursts known as tics. For those living with TS and their families, the journey can often be challenging, and having a support network is crucial. The Tourette Association of America – Texas Chapter has been dedicated to providing much-needed support and resources for individuals with TS and their families for over three decades. Now, they are extending their reach to the Crossroads area, specifically in Jackson County, Texas, to help even more families and individuals in need.

     The Texas Chapter of the Tourette Association of America is thrilled to announce the establishment of a new support group in Victoria, Texas, to serve individuals with TS in Victoria, Inez, Edna, Louise, Corpus Christi, and the surrounding areas. The support group aims to create a safe space for children, families, and adults living with TS, where they can find understanding, empathy, and camaraderie.

     To celebrate this new endeavor and to kick off the support group, a family gathering will take place at Outlaw Pass on Sunday, July 23, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. This event promises a day of fun-filled activities and is open to children with TS, their parents, immediate siblings, and adults with TS. 

     To secure your spot for this exciting event, simply email info@tourettetexas.org with your name(s), city, and the number of adults and children attending, and don’t forget to mention “VICTORIA” in the Subject Line. This event is free of charge and presents an excellent opportunity to meet others in the TS community and form valuable connections.

     The first official support group meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 11, from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm at the Victoria Public Library, located at 302 North Main Street, Victoria, TX. This inaugural meeting will include a “Meet and Greet” Pizza Party and a “Back to School” In-Service led by Sheryl Kadmon, Executive Director, and Educational Specialist for Tourette Texas.

     Subsequent meetings will also be held at the Victoria Public Library on Monday, December 11, from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm, featuring a Holiday Potluck. The support group meetings are designed to provide informative sessions, support, and opportunities for social interaction among families, children, and adults coping with Tourette Syndrome.

     The Tourette Association of America – Texas Chapter offers a wide range of free programs and services for children and families affected by TS. Some of the valuable services they provide include:

    Advocacy and Consulting: Offering no-cost professional consulting to evaluate the “whole” child or adult, recommending and assisting in implementing appropriate medical diagnosis and management, educational needs, social skills, career goals, and family interactions. They also advocate with families, physicians, schools, and legal entities to ensure the best interests of their clients are always served.

    Education and In-Service: Disseminating accurate information about Tourette’s syndrome to physicians, educators, parents, and families, both at events throughout the state and during in-service presentations at school districts.

     Medical Assistance Program: Providing financial support for visits to experienced physicians for the diagnosis and management of TS symptoms for financially strapped, underinsured, and non-insured individuals.

     Scholarships and Direct Client Services: Providing scholarships for educational assistance and other necessities to deserving and needy families.

     Support Groups: Organizing regular meetings at various support groups around the state, which offer speakers, support, materials, and social interaction for families, children, and adults dealing with Tourette’s syndrome.

     Youth Ambassador Program: Partnering with the National Tourette Association to sponsor and train children and teens to talk about TS. These young ambassadors speak about TS before their peers at schools, sports leagues, scout troops, camps, and after-school programs to spread awareness and demystify TS.

     Camp du Ballon Rouge: Celebrating its 20th year in 2023, this tuition-free camp hosts children and teens with TS for a four-day camping weekend. For many participants, this camp is a unique opportunity to feel free of prejudice or embarrassment about their symptoms.

     Family Events and Activities: Tourette Texas hosts various holiday parties, summer/back-to-school parties, pizza parties at support group meetings, and other sports and cultural outings across the state, all free of charge to families who often face overwhelming challenges.

Tourette Syndrome affects approximately 2-3% of the U.S. population, with over half a million Texans estimated to have the condition. It is important to note that while TS is more common in males, it can affect individuals of all ethnic groups. TS often begins in childhood and can vary widely between individuals, with symptoms ranging from mild to disabling.

     Symptoms of TS typically include motor tics, such as eye blinking, head jerking, and facial grimacing, as well as vocal tics, like throat clearing, barking noises, and tongue clicking. It is also often accompanied by other conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

     Treatment for TS aims to alleviate symptoms, as there is currently no known cure. Various safe and effective treatments, such as medications, behavioral therapy, and counseling, are available to help manage the condition and improve the quality of life for those affected.

The establishment of a new support group in Jackson County is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive and understanding community for individuals and families living with Tourette Syndrome.

         If you or someone you know is affected by Tourette Syndrome and resides in the Crossroads area, the new support group in Jackson County will be a valuable resource to connect with others facing similar challenges. Mark your calendars for the kick-off event on July 23 at Outlaw Pass, and make sure to email info@tourettetexas.org to reserve your spot.