Having any sort of disorder can make a person have to grow up a little bit faster. I remember being a little girl, first diagnosed, and not having a care in the world because I was not yet aware of people's prejudice against being different. I knew it on a surface level, but I didn't really understand it. I feel like sometimes as adults we can become jaded due to not only negative memories from our childhood, in which we have come to see a situation for what it was, but also to things we experience once that adult awareness comes in. It's easier to get hurt and to feel anger or resentment towards others. Compound that with all the other things that come to our attention as we traverse through adulthood.
It's so easy for us to forget that not everything is personal and that people's ignorance and fear of the unknown is often what rules their cruelty. When we were children, hopefully, our parents took care of any issues we had and stood up or spoke out for us anytime we encountered antagonism or animosity from peers or elders. However, once we become adults we have to become our own advocates and that's hard. We may still have assistance from parents, friends, or colleagues, but mostly it is up to us.
So how do we do it? Not everyone has the innate ability to confront someone who has committed a wrong against them or a loved one. Some are pacifists, some are passive-aggressive, and others still just weren't taught how to stand up for themselves. I am a pacifist and sometimes when I am confronted with situations such as these I get nervous, shaky, and/or forget what I want, need, or should say. The key is to take baby steps. Start with little things such as calmly telling someone that what they said was inappropriate. Also, make sure that you have an advocate go with you or practice what you would say in certain situations or what you are going to say if a situation has arisen where you need to speak up. Note: It's okay to have cue cards to help you remember what to say. Don't allow the person to interrupt you and if they do, persevere. Dealing with these things comes easier with time, practice, and maturity.
Lastly, it's important to remember that even if you do have to confront someone, you don't have to do it in an insulting or threatening manner. It can be done without screaming and yelling and spoken in a calm, yet firm voice.
November 12, 2013
September 18, 2013
Person > Label
Each and every case of Tourettes is unique, but we all have similarities, a connection. Sometimes I feel like I want to be separated from TS and OCD, to just be me without having to worry about what I look like when I'm ticcing in public or what people think when I make funny noises or get upset over something that may seem trivial to them, but is part of what makes my day go on.
I just started a new job and it's hard enough being someone who isn't traditional by nature, because people don't accept different and they're intimidated by it. So it makes it that much harder having to tic in front of them. Every time I go into a new setting I have to go through the steps.:
-Start with facial tics, because they're less noticeable.
- Next a few neck and arm "stretching" tics, because they look natural right?
-Then most of my quiet resolve dissolves into upper body shaking tics and some lower body if I'm standing.
-Then come the ones that may seem a little more embarrassing or scary looking: sticking my tongue out or hitting my arms against my sides.
-Finally, the pièce de résistance.......: What do I do about my vocal tics??? I don't get them very often, but when I do, there's nothing subtle about them. Ever since I've grown up I think I've struggled more with those and have yet to come to terms with them. I developed a little bit of a stutter now and again and I do bird calls and random noises.
I recently started a new job and I'm in this 15x20 room training with over a dozen other people and I tic in front of them all the time. I went through all the steps, only treading lightly on that last one, but I've done it. I tic and I sign in front of them and I don't care. It feels so good and it makes me feel like I'm just a person, not a label. When I'm able to do that, I can get out of my own head and see other people and things. Although I have to be pro-active in said process too, I couldn't do it without God and my family.
Check out this guy on X-Factor who has TS and OCD. Here's the article and video. It takes a great support system to have the courage to do what he did. :)
I just started a new job and it's hard enough being someone who isn't traditional by nature, because people don't accept different and they're intimidated by it. So it makes it that much harder having to tic in front of them. Every time I go into a new setting I have to go through the steps.:
-Start with facial tics, because they're less noticeable.
- Next a few neck and arm "stretching" tics, because they look natural right?
-Then most of my quiet resolve dissolves into upper body shaking tics and some lower body if I'm standing.
-Then come the ones that may seem a little more embarrassing or scary looking: sticking my tongue out or hitting my arms against my sides.
-Finally, the pièce de résistance.......: What do I do about my vocal tics??? I don't get them very often, but when I do, there's nothing subtle about them. Ever since I've grown up I think I've struggled more with those and have yet to come to terms with them. I developed a little bit of a stutter now and again and I do bird calls and random noises.
I recently started a new job and I'm in this 15x20 room training with over a dozen other people and I tic in front of them all the time. I went through all the steps, only treading lightly on that last one, but I've done it. I tic and I sign in front of them and I don't care. It feels so good and it makes me feel like I'm just a person, not a label. When I'm able to do that, I can get out of my own head and see other people and things. Although I have to be pro-active in said process too, I couldn't do it without God and my family.
Check out this guy on X-Factor who has TS and OCD. Here's the article and video. It takes a great support system to have the courage to do what he did. :)
July 22, 2013
Mimicry: the Finest Form of Flattery
According to IMDb Front of the Class is about: Despite suffering from Tourette's syndrome, Brad Cohen (James Wolk) fulfills his lifelong dream of becoming a teacher in this touching Hallmark Hall of Fame production based on a true story that shines a light on this often misunderstood disorder. As Cohen grows up, he must face friends and classmates who don't realize that he sometimes cannot control his outbursts, and a father (Treat Williams) who seems unwilling to accept his son's condition.
Despite my concerns I was excited to watch the film. It was about someone with TS and how he had used determination and fortitude to accomplish a goal that many had thought impossible. Don't worry, no spoilers here! While to the experienced eye of someone with TS there were a couple discrepancies, James Wolk's portrayal of Mr. Cohen's case of TS was amazing and looked completely unrehearsed.
While watching the Front of the Class, I experienced several emotions. Empathy, because I understood some of what he was going through, happiness during the good and funny parts (of course), and some stress. Even though, for the most part, I was engrossed while the film played, when the commercials came on, that's when the tics along with built up stress occurred. I had bad vocal tics like squeaking, yelling, and a sort of loud whining. The motors tics I experienced surprised me the most. I had several head shaking tics and one where (I was sitting on my bed at the time) I would fall over on my side and get back up repeatedly.
Part of having this disorder includes the brain's ability to record observations and events and transpose parts of them into the form of a vocal and/or motor tic. That means a person can develop a tic sequence simply from observing others whether from a movie or real-time events. This doesn't have to limit what a person with TS watches or their life experience as a whole. Just keep in mind that if something has any sort of impact on you, it may translate into a tic later on. In this case it's important to remember that tic cycles are temporary and even though there may be times when one has to avoid a certain situation, it doesn't mean it's permanent.
June 21, 2013
Laugh Out Loud
So what tics do you have???
Ever have one of those laugh or cry moments? Tourette Syndrome can be frustrating, overwhelming, maddening, etc. but it can also be funny or silly. I've had people ask me this question soooo many times and I'm thinking: Where do I start? Do you want the manual? I love the above meme because it illustrates the answer to this question so perfectly. What I usually do when asked that sort of question is just rattle off the first dozen or so that come to mind.
So the meme out there these days for all of us Touretters is Tourette's Toucan! Some of them are funny or awkward, some are just irritants that we experience, and mostly all of them are relatable. If you click on the link attached to the site name and click on "Memes only" in the bottom right hand corner, you can take a look at all of the ones posted so far, but for today I'm going to name a few moments of my own. If you don't have TS or don't know a whole lot about it, some of the memes may be confusing, so feel free to ask!
I remember a time, not long after I was diagnosed, when I was lying on the couch having what's called a complex-motor tic. I was having a tic where my entire body was periodically jerking and shaking every which way. At one point I ticced so hard I fell off the couch laughing. Thinking back on it, the whole scene was kind of funny, but having those complex tics are not always fun, they can be downright aggravating and frustrating.
In fact, I've had many moments where I break down and cry because my tics are so overwhelming and "in my face" that I don't feel like I can cope on my own. I hope that everyone out there has some sort of support group or confidante they can lean on and draw strength from when their own is waning. The important thing to remember is that those hard tic phases don't last and the cycle will calm down and change just like any other. Lastly, please remember one can always contact the Tourette Syndrome Association when at a loss for answers. This is why promoting awareness and understanding is so essential, so that in the future there will be more and more resources available to the TS population.
June 16, 2013
Happy Father's Day!!!
It's rainy and chilly outside. Unusual weather for this time of year in the Northern Panhandle, but I don't mind. I've mentioned several times how my mum has been a great help to me throughout my years in dealing with Tourettes. I've talked about how she's supported me, guided me, taught me to stand up for myself, etc, but today I want to talk about my dad.
Whatever mysterious gene that Tourette Syndrome comes on came from his side of the family, along with OCD. Several of the oddities that I've experienced over the years, he's gone through himself. Having TS can be very lonely when you're the only known one in the family who has it, so it's kind of cool when we find something else in common. Throughout my college career, as I've mentioned before, I've experienced some prejudices that I didn't know how to or couldn't deal with on my own. My dad has come to class with me when I felt like I couldn't be alone, and he's gone to bat for me when someone wouldn't give me the accomadations I needed or didn't seem to "get" that having Tourettes can be difficult and can sometimes make certain everyday activities hard to deal with such as: ticcing in public, standing or sitting still for long periods of time, being quiet, sensory processing, etc.
My dad, my mum, and various other peoples have been responsible for the on-going process of learning to be comfortable with myself and my tics and being able to stand up for myself. I don't believe in being quiet or sitting on the sidelines while someone gives me a proverbial beating. I don't always know what to say, but, chances are, someone else does. The important thing to remember is each time someone sticks up for me and/or I stick up for myself, and promote Tourette Syndrome awareness, I've gained another notch in my belt of advocation. Being an advocate can be something as simple as telling someone you have Tourettes, because you're showing that you're not ashamed of who you are.
I had one incident at a place of employment when I was a sophomore in college where a supervisor got upset with me for calling home because my tics were so bad that I couldn't be still for a second and I didn't know what to do. This was also during a time when I was less than okay with expressing my tics in public. When I tried to explain that I had obtained permission to call and that I had TS, he refused to listen and told me to go home. Try as I might, I couldn't hold back my tears. My mum who was on the phone this whole time listening to the exchange told my dad what was happening and within fifteen minutes he was up there speaking on my behalf to the man who had committed the transgression. If it hadn't been for my dad that day, I don't know what I would have done.
In closing, I just want to remind everyone that everyone out there who has Tourette Syndrome or knows someone with does is covered under that American Disabilities Act. That means no one is allowed to discriminate against you because of your disability.
Whatever mysterious gene that Tourette Syndrome comes on came from his side of the family, along with OCD. Several of the oddities that I've experienced over the years, he's gone through himself. Having TS can be very lonely when you're the only known one in the family who has it, so it's kind of cool when we find something else in common. Throughout my college career, as I've mentioned before, I've experienced some prejudices that I didn't know how to or couldn't deal with on my own. My dad has come to class with me when I felt like I couldn't be alone, and he's gone to bat for me when someone wouldn't give me the accomadations I needed or didn't seem to "get" that having Tourettes can be difficult and can sometimes make certain everyday activities hard to deal with such as: ticcing in public, standing or sitting still for long periods of time, being quiet, sensory processing, etc.
My dad, my mum, and various other peoples have been responsible for the on-going process of learning to be comfortable with myself and my tics and being able to stand up for myself. I don't believe in being quiet or sitting on the sidelines while someone gives me a proverbial beating. I don't always know what to say, but, chances are, someone else does. The important thing to remember is each time someone sticks up for me and/or I stick up for myself, and promote Tourette Syndrome awareness, I've gained another notch in my belt of advocation. Being an advocate can be something as simple as telling someone you have Tourettes, because you're showing that you're not ashamed of who you are.
I had one incident at a place of employment when I was a sophomore in college where a supervisor got upset with me for calling home because my tics were so bad that I couldn't be still for a second and I didn't know what to do. This was also during a time when I was less than okay with expressing my tics in public. When I tried to explain that I had obtained permission to call and that I had TS, he refused to listen and told me to go home. Try as I might, I couldn't hold back my tears. My mum who was on the phone this whole time listening to the exchange told my dad what was happening and within fifteen minutes he was up there speaking on my behalf to the man who had committed the transgression. If it hadn't been for my dad that day, I don't know what I would have done.
In closing, I just want to remind everyone that everyone out there who has Tourette Syndrome or knows someone with does is covered under that American Disabilities Act. That means no one is allowed to discriminate against you because of your disability.
May 29, 2013
Here's The Deal
Take it from someone who has been there. Seeing someone tic can often look/be funny, silly, unnerving, weird, etc. Sometimes I'm not even sure what to make of myself, especially if I'm dealing with new tics or a new set of tics. Every time I go out in public I play this mental game of battleship. How bad are my tics today? How much am I able to tic in front of people. Do I let people see my old tics, let alone new ones? What happens if I have a vocal tic? All this and OCD too??? It can be exhausting.
People don't always know how to approach someone with Tourettes or what to do if they see a person ticcing and that's understandable. It's nothing to be ashamed of, because often I, and others like me, am often more frustrated or confused then anyone looking in from the outside. So, what does one do when confronted with someone who has TS?
1. When talking to someone with TS, don't be afraid to look at them when they're ticcing. You're having a conversation, so it's perfectly acceptable to make eye contact.
2. Don't be afraid to ask if you are genuinely curious. Say something like, "Excuse me, I couldn't help but notice, do you have Tourettes?"
3. Do NOT ask ask them to stop ticcing. We literally cannot help it.
4. Remember that not everyone with TS is going to start spouting profanities. -Only 10% do and even they aren't guaranteed
5. Someone with TS needs to be included in groups, not excluded or isolated because they're different. Make it clear that they're welcome.
6. People with TS are naturally tense for a number of reasons. Do what you can to make them feel at ease.
7. Don't single someone out who has TS by pitying them or continuously asking them if they're okay.
8. Everyone has problems or something they need help with. If someone with TS is asking for help or special consideration, assume it's because they really need it, not because they just want attention.
9. If you're friends with someone with TS, learn to be accustomed to their tics, rather than constantly being startled or disconcerted. Body language alone speaks volumes. If we constantly have to worry about how our tics are going to affect whomever we are with, it puts us in a defensive position that prohibits us from relaxing and being ourselves.
10. Learn to accept others as they are with all their unique differences and challenges. Being able to coexist with others in a peaceful and meaningful way is invaluable.
This picture is not my property.
People don't always know how to approach someone with Tourettes or what to do if they see a person ticcing and that's understandable. It's nothing to be ashamed of, because often I, and others like me, am often more frustrated or confused then anyone looking in from the outside. So, what does one do when confronted with someone who has TS?
1. When talking to someone with TS, don't be afraid to look at them when they're ticcing. You're having a conversation, so it's perfectly acceptable to make eye contact.
2. Don't be afraid to ask if you are genuinely curious. Say something like, "Excuse me, I couldn't help but notice, do you have Tourettes?"
3. Do NOT ask ask them to stop ticcing. We literally cannot help it.
4. Remember that not everyone with TS is going to start spouting profanities. -Only 10% do and even they aren't guaranteed
5. Someone with TS needs to be included in groups, not excluded or isolated because they're different. Make it clear that they're welcome.
6. People with TS are naturally tense for a number of reasons. Do what you can to make them feel at ease.
7. Don't single someone out who has TS by pitying them or continuously asking them if they're okay.
8. Everyone has problems or something they need help with. If someone with TS is asking for help or special consideration, assume it's because they really need it, not because they just want attention.
9. If you're friends with someone with TS, learn to be accustomed to their tics, rather than constantly being startled or disconcerted. Body language alone speaks volumes. If we constantly have to worry about how our tics are going to affect whomever we are with, it puts us in a defensive position that prohibits us from relaxing and being ourselves.
10. Learn to accept others as they are with all their unique differences and challenges. Being able to coexist with others in a peaceful and meaningful way is invaluable.
May 23, 2013
Proud To Be Me
In all walks of life there are many people who would have one conceal certain things about oneself in order to preserve some social fantasy that they keep in their head, some picture that they harbor of how people should and do view them. I have touched on this subject before, but my heart especially goes out to those who are made to feel ashamed of their disorder in one way or another. This doesn't just apply to those with Tourettes, but also those who have other medical issues that can be considered a social stigma. I'm not saying anyone has to broadcast their disorder or should be known by it, but, they should not have to feel as if they are an inconvenience.
I was blessed to be raised in a family who let me be myself with and without TS and was encouraged instead of put down. I was always told that I would be able to do wonderful things, not just in spite of, but also because I have TS. I would be able to relate to people in a way that not everyone else can and I would be able to see people in a different light, because I, myself, had been there. I have experienced my own share of negative encounters with people because of the simple (or not so simple) fact that I have TS - some of these I have shared with you.
You may argue that learning of a person's disorder can change the way some people think about them or the way they treat them and you would be right. I have encountered such ignorance through my own eyes; but really, do I want to be close to and hang around people who think that way with such unwavering diligence? When I have children someday there is a 50% chance that they will be born with Tourette Syndrome and/or one of the other co-morbid disorders that I have. Society will do the job of making one self-conscious, ashamed, embarrassed, etc. about one's disabilities. Therefore, it has no place in the family. To anyone out there with children who suffer from such things or perhaps they themselves do, I would say, your disorder does not define who you are, but it is an integral part of who you are. Learning how integrate your "TS self" and how to live harmoniously with it instead of constantly fighting it is vitally important not only for your own peace of mind and body, but so that you may also be an example to others.
I was blessed to be raised in a family who let me be myself with and without TS and was encouraged instead of put down. I was always told that I would be able to do wonderful things, not just in spite of, but also because I have TS. I would be able to relate to people in a way that not everyone else can and I would be able to see people in a different light, because I, myself, had been there. I have experienced my own share of negative encounters with people because of the simple (or not so simple) fact that I have TS - some of these I have shared with you.
You may argue that learning of a person's disorder can change the way some people think about them or the way they treat them and you would be right. I have encountered such ignorance through my own eyes; but really, do I want to be close to and hang around people who think that way with such unwavering diligence? When I have children someday there is a 50% chance that they will be born with Tourette Syndrome and/or one of the other co-morbid disorders that I have. Society will do the job of making one self-conscious, ashamed, embarrassed, etc. about one's disabilities. Therefore, it has no place in the family. To anyone out there with children who suffer from such things or perhaps they themselves do, I would say, your disorder does not define who you are, but it is an integral part of who you are. Learning how integrate your "TS self" and how to live harmoniously with it instead of constantly fighting it is vitally important not only for your own peace of mind and body, but so that you may also be an example to others.
May 15, 2013
HAPPY TOURETTE SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH!!!
With my college graduation coming up in three days, this seemed like a good time to share a couple stories. Now, you may have noticed that I haven't posted for a week, but that's because I was getting ready for this week's post and of course GRADUATION. Yay! Going through college with Tourette Syndrome has definitely made for an interesting ride. All the hard work I have put into my college career has paid off, but it hasn't always been easy. I won't say it hasn't been without its rewards though.
When I first started college, like most students, as freshman at West Liberty University I was living in the dorms just trying to acclimate to my new life. I had been going through a couple years of suppression where I had worked so hard to disguise my tics, that I couldn't tic if my life depended on it. This was all due to feeling humiliated at anyone seeing me tic, as many of them can be unsettling or distracting. It was as if that part of my brain had temporarily gone somewhat dormant to the point that if I did feel the need to tic, it felt alien and I almost couldn't. (I don't recommend this) So, the most I experienced were facial grimaces, crossing of the eyes, and scrunching up my facial muscles. I made a few friends, even met my first real boyfriend, and did pretty well in my classes.
During my sophomore year, I had begun to dislike dorm life and wasn't doing as well in school as I needed or wanted to. I missed my family (pets included) and I didn't like being away from everything, so I began to explore the idea of switching schools. I knew this would mean a longer ride and with choosing Wheeling Jesuit I would become a commuter, an idea that I was actually kind of excited about. When I entered WJU in spring of 2010, things began to look up, but it was only the beginning of one of the biggest challenges of my life.
In the spring of 2011, something got triggered in my brain and my tics came back in full force. It was was like I was that kid again who looked like they were constantly hyped up on sugar and caffeine. I began seeing a therapist to help me cope because ticcing in front of people, let alone in a small classroom, was no easier than it had been in high school. In March of 2012 I attended the National Tourette Syndrome Association conference in Arlington, VA. I met people of all ages who dealt with the same things I did. I wasn't alone in my TS anymore and that felt good. Long story short, I was inspired to do a TS Awareness Campaign for my undergrad senior project. It wasn't readily accepted, but I stuck to it and was met with success; even won a couple awards!
It was a long, arduous process to be able to tic comfortably in public. I took baby steps and LOTS of them, but today I can tic just about anywhere and as soon as it's over I resume "normal" activity as if nothing happened. I've noticed it seems to make most people more comfortable to see that it doesn't bother me or at least doesn't appear to bother me. There are still times when I struggle to tic in public. I have to remind myself everyday (especially if someone looks at me weird or is obviously startled by my tics) that it's not about them, it doesn't matter what they think, and without that part of me, the TS part, I would be a totally different person then the one I am today. So, take it from a very soon to be college GRAD: "We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face... we must do that which we think we cannot." - Eleanor Roosevelt
HAPPY TOURETTE SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH!!!
When I first started college, like most students, as freshman at West Liberty University I was living in the dorms just trying to acclimate to my new life. I had been going through a couple years of suppression where I had worked so hard to disguise my tics, that I couldn't tic if my life depended on it. This was all due to feeling humiliated at anyone seeing me tic, as many of them can be unsettling or distracting. It was as if that part of my brain had temporarily gone somewhat dormant to the point that if I did feel the need to tic, it felt alien and I almost couldn't. (I don't recommend this) So, the most I experienced were facial grimaces, crossing of the eyes, and scrunching up my facial muscles. I made a few friends, even met my first real boyfriend, and did pretty well in my classes.
During my sophomore year, I had begun to dislike dorm life and wasn't doing as well in school as I needed or wanted to. I missed my family (pets included) and I didn't like being away from everything, so I began to explore the idea of switching schools. I knew this would mean a longer ride and with choosing Wheeling Jesuit I would become a commuter, an idea that I was actually kind of excited about. When I entered WJU in spring of 2010, things began to look up, but it was only the beginning of one of the biggest challenges of my life.
In the spring of 2011, something got triggered in my brain and my tics came back in full force. It was was like I was that kid again who looked like they were constantly hyped up on sugar and caffeine. I began seeing a therapist to help me cope because ticcing in front of people, let alone in a small classroom, was no easier than it had been in high school. In March of 2012 I attended the National Tourette Syndrome Association conference in Arlington, VA. I met people of all ages who dealt with the same things I did. I wasn't alone in my TS anymore and that felt good. Long story short, I was inspired to do a TS Awareness Campaign for my undergrad senior project. It wasn't readily accepted, but I stuck to it and was met with success; even won a couple awards!
It was a long, arduous process to be able to tic comfortably in public. I took baby steps and LOTS of them, but today I can tic just about anywhere and as soon as it's over I resume "normal" activity as if nothing happened. I've noticed it seems to make most people more comfortable to see that it doesn't bother me or at least doesn't appear to bother me. There are still times when I struggle to tic in public. I have to remind myself everyday (especially if someone looks at me weird or is obviously startled by my tics) that it's not about them, it doesn't matter what they think, and without that part of me, the TS part, I would be a totally different person then the one I am today. So, take it from a very soon to be college GRAD: "We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face... we must do that which we think we cannot." - Eleanor Roosevelt
HAPPY TOURETTE SYNDROME AWARENESS MONTH!!!
May 01, 2013
Weird or Just Normal?
I've heard many people with different neurological disorder mention weird and freaky symptoms that can be somewhat unsettling no matter how many times it happens. Sometimes these occurrences cause the person the feel anxious, scared, worried, etc. They can also make one feel a change in perception or that they're "losing it". Unfortunately, doctors don't always have the answers or at least one that you would like. Often people suffer in silence thinking there is nothing they can do.
Ever since I was little one of the weirdest and most unsettling symptoms I've experienced has been what I've dubbed "the fast feeling". To this day, I'm not entirely certain what it is, although from brief research I have come to believe it takes place in my frontal lobe, possibly what they term a micro-seizure. Disclaimer: This is my own observation and should not be taken as a substitution for medical advice.
Anyway, enough with the technical stuff. This fast feeling would come on somewhat subtly and quickly. One day I was doing dishes and fixing something to eat for lunch. All of the sudden, all the sounds I heard and the movements I did or observed changed in perception. Everything sounded really loud. I began to feel anxious. Every time I moved or someone around me did, it felt as though it were happening at an accelerated rate and yet somewhat slow at the same time. I wanted to stop moving and just hide under my blankets with my eyes and ears covered until everything quieted down and went back to normal, but I was afraid, if I stopped doing "normal" tasks, it would get worse and I wouldn't be able to handle it. So, I kept going and with some intervention and support from my mum, eventually things resumed as usual and it stopped as quickly and subtly as it started. I've had episodes like that that lasted from five minutes to an hour.
Fortunately, it decreased in frequency as I got older and now it only happens once in a blue moon. It's scary when that sort of thing happens and it's even worse if you happen to be alone when it does. My point in telling you this story was not to scare anyone or make them feel sorry for me, but to let you know that, when these "weird" instances happen to you, you're not alone. It doesn't necessarily mean that you're "losing it" or that somethings horribly wrong. Sometimes the brain glitches and it can take a bit for it to reset. Mine is only one instance, so feel free to share your own story and comments. :)
Ever since I was little one of the weirdest and most unsettling symptoms I've experienced has been what I've dubbed "the fast feeling". To this day, I'm not entirely certain what it is, although from brief research I have come to believe it takes place in my frontal lobe, possibly what they term a micro-seizure. Disclaimer: This is my own observation and should not be taken as a substitution for medical advice.
Anyway, enough with the technical stuff. This fast feeling would come on somewhat subtly and quickly. One day I was doing dishes and fixing something to eat for lunch. All of the sudden, all the sounds I heard and the movements I did or observed changed in perception. Everything sounded really loud. I began to feel anxious. Every time I moved or someone around me did, it felt as though it were happening at an accelerated rate and yet somewhat slow at the same time. I wanted to stop moving and just hide under my blankets with my eyes and ears covered until everything quieted down and went back to normal, but I was afraid, if I stopped doing "normal" tasks, it would get worse and I wouldn't be able to handle it. So, I kept going and with some intervention and support from my mum, eventually things resumed as usual and it stopped as quickly and subtly as it started. I've had episodes like that that lasted from five minutes to an hour.
Fortunately, it decreased in frequency as I got older and now it only happens once in a blue moon. It's scary when that sort of thing happens and it's even worse if you happen to be alone when it does. My point in telling you this story was not to scare anyone or make them feel sorry for me, but to let you know that, when these "weird" instances happen to you, you're not alone. It doesn't necessarily mean that you're "losing it" or that somethings horribly wrong. Sometimes the brain glitches and it can take a bit for it to reset. Mine is only one instance, so feel free to share your own story and comments. :)
April 26, 2013
Way Back When.....
When I was a little girl, I joined Girl Scouts (Brownies) in the first grade. I have always loved hiking, exploring, making crafts, etc. So, this was a good fit for me. It was only a couple years later that my tics became full blown and I was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome. I had many motor tics, most of which consisted of shaking and jerking my upper body or my legs. Back then, however, my vocal tics were aplenty and became more frequent if I got excited. I would do the "girl-scream", talk in an escalated tone, squeak, whistle, and make bird noises. All of this seemed "normal" to me, but to my friends, it could be quite startling at times.
I remember being on a weekend camping trip when I had just entered Juniors. It was cold and rainy and we slept in tents that were not entirely unexposed to the outdoors (which meant bugs). Every few minutes or seconds I would let loose with one of my vocal tics and a couple of the girls asked me to stop. I looked at them slightly confused as to why they would ask me such a thing. I was never a quiet person and, as I said, ticcing was a natural thing to me. One of my friends stepped forward and said, "She can't help it."
"Yes, she can." Retorted one girl with her arms crossed. She wore her hair in a ponytail and seemed to speak for the others who had objected. "Yeah, why can't you stop?" snapped a girl in pigtails behind her.
Glad to have someone on my side and wanting these girls to leave me alone, I finally spoke up. "It's a tic, I have Tourettes." I shrugged and launched into the 9 year old's version of what TS is.
This was just one instance where I've encountered social insensitivity. There are always consequences to that kind of behavior. I'm not going to say it didn't sting or hurt, but over the years I've learned that many times when people say things like that it's due to a lack of knowledge or that thing in your brain that makes you think before you speak, i.e. discernment. The trick is to learn to ignore their comments and even encourage questions. That let's people know that you're okay with having TS, even though it can be a challenge. Also, it's important to learn to be comfortable in your own skin and ticcing in public, because if people don't accept you AND your Tourettes, they're probably not the kind of people you want to hang around anyway.
I remember being on a weekend camping trip when I had just entered Juniors. It was cold and rainy and we slept in tents that were not entirely unexposed to the outdoors (which meant bugs). Every few minutes or seconds I would let loose with one of my vocal tics and a couple of the girls asked me to stop. I looked at them slightly confused as to why they would ask me such a thing. I was never a quiet person and, as I said, ticcing was a natural thing to me. One of my friends stepped forward and said, "She can't help it."
"Yes, she can." Retorted one girl with her arms crossed. She wore her hair in a ponytail and seemed to speak for the others who had objected. "Yeah, why can't you stop?" snapped a girl in pigtails behind her.
Glad to have someone on my side and wanting these girls to leave me alone, I finally spoke up. "It's a tic, I have Tourettes." I shrugged and launched into the 9 year old's version of what TS is.
This was just one instance where I've encountered social insensitivity. There are always consequences to that kind of behavior. I'm not going to say it didn't sting or hurt, but over the years I've learned that many times when people say things like that it's due to a lack of knowledge or that thing in your brain that makes you think before you speak, i.e. discernment. The trick is to learn to ignore their comments and even encourage questions. That let's people know that you're okay with having TS, even though it can be a challenge. Also, it's important to learn to be comfortable in your own skin and ticcing in public, because if people don't accept you AND your Tourettes, they're probably not the kind of people you want to hang around anyway.
April 18, 2013
Neighboring Disorders
So last week I talked about some of the common concerns people who have TS deal with. This week I'm going to talk on a few co-morbid disorders. What exactly does that mean, you ask? Sounds kind of bad, doesn't it? According to Merriam Webster's Dictionary co-morbid means: existing simultaneously with and usually independently of another medical condition. Not so bad right? Yes and no.
Personally, I have experienced two of these. Sometimes they're in the back seat and others on the passenger side. I was diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) at the same time I was diagnosed with Tourette's. OCD is defined as: a psychoneurotic disorder in which the person experiences reoccurring thoughts in the form of obsessions or compulsions or both and suffers anxiety or depression through failure to think the obsessive thoughts or perform the compelling acts. The good thing is it's not always as serious as all that. Cases vary from mild to severe. Most of my growing up years it's been in the back of my mind, kind of minding its own business. The main part of my life OCD has affected is scheduling. For the most part, I lead a very scheduled life and I can get easily thrown off track if the schedule drastically changes. I've successfully attempted behavioral modifications techniques to "loosen up" on scheduling. For example, if I plan on having lunch at noon, but, because of outside intervention, I cannot leave until 12:30. I have to adapt to that by having the prepared thought or "plan of action" allowing myself a window of time before and after the proposed time.
The second thing I deal with is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) - an anxiety disorder marked by excessive anxiety and worry. In other words, I'm a little high strung. lol This is something that is exacerbated or made worse by my OCD and vice versa. However, it doesn't rule my life and again, it ranges from mild to severe in different people.
Both of these can sometimes affect my TS. The OCD can cause the tics to be more repetitive and the anxiety can sometimes cause me to over-worry. As I have mentioned before, I am blessed with a great support system and good health care. It also helps to have God on my side. Heaven knows without all of these things my life would be very different. Now, I am a soon to be a college graduate!
Personally, I have experienced two of these. Sometimes they're in the back seat and others on the passenger side. I was diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) at the same time I was diagnosed with Tourette's. OCD is defined as: a psychoneurotic disorder in which the person experiences reoccurring thoughts in the form of obsessions or compulsions or both and suffers anxiety or depression through failure to think the obsessive thoughts or perform the compelling acts. The good thing is it's not always as serious as all that. Cases vary from mild to severe. Most of my growing up years it's been in the back of my mind, kind of minding its own business. The main part of my life OCD has affected is scheduling. For the most part, I lead a very scheduled life and I can get easily thrown off track if the schedule drastically changes. I've successfully attempted behavioral modifications techniques to "loosen up" on scheduling. For example, if I plan on having lunch at noon, but, because of outside intervention, I cannot leave until 12:30. I have to adapt to that by having the prepared thought or "plan of action" allowing myself a window of time before and after the proposed time.
The second thing I deal with is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) - an anxiety disorder marked by excessive anxiety and worry. In other words, I'm a little high strung. lol This is something that is exacerbated or made worse by my OCD and vice versa. However, it doesn't rule my life and again, it ranges from mild to severe in different people.
Both of these can sometimes affect my TS. The OCD can cause the tics to be more repetitive and the anxiety can sometimes cause me to over-worry. As I have mentioned before, I am blessed with a great support system and good health care. It also helps to have God on my side. Heaven knows without all of these things my life would be very different. Now, I am a soon to be a college graduate!
April 10, 2013
Common Concerns
Happy Spring all! I've had the flu for the past couple days, but on the bright side, that gives me ample time for reading and such. So, I'm a member of this group on Facebook for high school and college students with TS. Someone posted a picture from Instagram naming various Tourettes Issues. I want to comment on these because they're some of the most common ones.
# 4: When people think you're rolling their eyes (or sticking your tongue out) at them.
Okay, rolling your eyes isn't such a big deal, although it can get you into trouble. I've told a few teachers that just because they see me doing that doesn't mean I'm disrespecting them. However, sometimes this one can be so bad that I'm afraid I'll look like a weirdo if anyone sees me doing it. So I put my head down or turn away to express it. The second one can be down right embarrassing. Haha just talking about it makes me do it. I was in class the other day and had it and we weren't in a regular set-up. It was more like a round table. Awkward...
#6: To me, this one is kind of funny. It's interesting to watch the different reactions. Some people are surprised and curious; others get this abashed look on their face. Either way the shoe is on the other foot.
#13: I am convinced that Obsessive Compulsive Disorder just has to be tag-along to TS. (Note: International OCD Foundation info can be found in the link on the right.)
#15: Wondering if your future kids will have Tourette's. (50% chance of heredity)
To me, you have to have the mindset that they might and take confidence in knowing that you are the best person to help them through it. Also, no matter who you are, every family has something and there's always that chance that it might get passed on. One cannot let fear be the ruling factor.
#16: In my blog, Blanket Hug, about the weighted blanket I talk about bad tics being a hindrance to sleep. This is common because, not just people with TS, but people with nervous system disorders often have trouble winding down. One thing to remember is: you are never too old to have a bedtime ritual. 3-4 hours before bed I dim the lights to start melatonin production (that hormone that makes you sleep) and anywhere from a half hour to an hour before bed I will read instead of watching TV because the lights from a screen of any sort can stimulate the brain.
#3: Wishing TS had an off button.
When my tics are really bad or they come on during something important, for instance: driving, an interview, carrying liquids, etc. I definitely wish there was an "Off button" during those times.
Even though, these things can be a hindrance, I wouldn't change who I am and it feels good to be able to find the humor in some things.
Okay, rolling your eyes isn't such a big deal, although it can get you into trouble. I've told a few teachers that just because they see me doing that doesn't mean I'm disrespecting them. However, sometimes this one can be so bad that I'm afraid I'll look like a weirdo if anyone sees me doing it. So I put my head down or turn away to express it. The second one can be down right embarrassing. Haha just talking about it makes me do it. I was in class the other day and had it and we weren't in a regular set-up. It was more like a round table. Awkward...
#6: To me, this one is kind of funny. It's interesting to watch the different reactions. Some people are surprised and curious; others get this abashed look on their face. Either way the shoe is on the other foot.
#13: I am convinced that Obsessive Compulsive Disorder just has to be tag-along to TS. (Note: International OCD Foundation info can be found in the link on the right.)
#15: Wondering if your future kids will have Tourette's. (50% chance of heredity)
To me, you have to have the mindset that they might and take confidence in knowing that you are the best person to help them through it. Also, no matter who you are, every family has something and there's always that chance that it might get passed on. One cannot let fear be the ruling factor.
#16: In my blog, Blanket Hug, about the weighted blanket I talk about bad tics being a hindrance to sleep. This is common because, not just people with TS, but people with nervous system disorders often have trouble winding down. One thing to remember is: you are never too old to have a bedtime ritual. 3-4 hours before bed I dim the lights to start melatonin production (that hormone that makes you sleep) and anywhere from a half hour to an hour before bed I will read instead of watching TV because the lights from a screen of any sort can stimulate the brain.
#3: Wishing TS had an off button.
When my tics are really bad or they come on during something important, for instance: driving, an interview, carrying liquids, etc. I definitely wish there was an "Off button" during those times.
Even though, these things can be a hindrance, I wouldn't change who I am and it feels good to be able to find the humor in some things.
April 02, 2013
My Little Blessing
Service dogs have long been a part of our society. Some serve in our protective units such as firefighting and police work. Others serve as guides and/or companions for people with many different disorders or disabilities. There have been dogs in my house all through my growing up years. They've always been a big part of my life, but I had never found one that I really bonded with until 2011. I had been wanting a dog of my own for some time. One that I had used my own earnings to get and one that I could train and bring up myself.
In the past I had either been too young and/or too immature to take on such a task, but one day I found myself at a local pet store. I had decided that I wanted a dachshund. We already had a pack of four canines at home, so getting another pet sounded a little daunting. I had found out they had a mini, smooth-coat dachshund there and went to check her out. She was only ten weeks old and had one brown eye and one blue eye. I always admired that in a dog. I was petting her and a loud sound scared her and she ran and hid under the bench. I called her back out and despite being scared, she came to me. I was hooked and I knew she was mine.
So, against some of my better judgment I took her home. That was back in July of 2011. My dog, Princess, is one of the best things to happen to me. She comforts me when I'm sad, sick, or having a bad tic day. Any time I'm feeling lonely, I can cuddle her and she doesn't mind. She's the sweetest thing, has even learned to smile, and is always so happy to see me when I get home. She puts her face up against mine whenever she wants love or knows I need some. She may not be a certified therapy/service dog, but if she was, I couldn't ask for a better one.
In the past I had either been too young and/or too immature to take on such a task, but one day I found myself at a local pet store. I had decided that I wanted a dachshund. We already had a pack of four canines at home, so getting another pet sounded a little daunting. I had found out they had a mini, smooth-coat dachshund there and went to check her out. She was only ten weeks old and had one brown eye and one blue eye. I always admired that in a dog. I was petting her and a loud sound scared her and she ran and hid under the bench. I called her back out and despite being scared, she came to me. I was hooked and I knew she was mine.
So, against some of my better judgment I took her home. That was back in July of 2011. My dog, Princess, is one of the best things to happen to me. She comforts me when I'm sad, sick, or having a bad tic day. Any time I'm feeling lonely, I can cuddle her and she doesn't mind. She's the sweetest thing, has even learned to smile, and is always so happy to see me when I get home. She puts her face up against mine whenever she wants love or knows I need some. She may not be a certified therapy/service dog, but if she was, I couldn't ask for a better one.
March 30, 2013
Part of Me
There are times in everyone's life who has TS or any other disorder that is lesser-known and/or publicly visible, when one is faced with having to fend off ignorant comments or actions. I've been fortunate enough not to encounter many of these moments, but that doesn't make it any less hurtful. On one such occasion I had a run-in with a professor, in college, who thought that because I had asked for an extension on an assignment that I was using my disorder as an excuse. Before that I could never imagine a professor being so cruel and it took a while to get past it. I don't know about the rest of you out there who live with TS, but to me, it was one of the highest insults.
What is my point in telling you this story? Well, last week I gave a brief description on what Tourette Syndrome is and got a lot of readership from it, so I thought I would follow up a bit. I don't believe people without TS and even some who have it realize what an integral part of your life it becomes. It becomes so much a part of you that, at times, you may not even notice light ticcing. You may not even notice others who are ticcing around you, because to you it's as normal as sneezing. Just like a sneeze it can be troublesome, but that doesn't mean it is the bane of your existence. Those of us who are born with it usually learn to look at the world with a different eye. Hopefully, in most cases, it is with a deeper perception and a big heart.
I live with TS every day and every night. I would be a different person were it not for my TS. I'm not cursed or "doomed" to live a life with TS. I am blessed to have been given an open heart for people who are not the same as me and the ability to look at people with a more unbiased discernment - a difficult task in today's untrusting society. To get a deeper look at what TS is and looks like, take a look at this excerpt from HBO's I Have Tourettes, But Tourettes Doesn't Have Me.
This second photo is courtesy of Jackie Ruth Gold.
What is my point in telling you this story? Well, last week I gave a brief description on what Tourette Syndrome is and got a lot of readership from it, so I thought I would follow up a bit. I don't believe people without TS and even some who have it realize what an integral part of your life it becomes. It becomes so much a part of you that, at times, you may not even notice light ticcing. You may not even notice others who are ticcing around you, because to you it's as normal as sneezing. Just like a sneeze it can be troublesome, but that doesn't mean it is the bane of your existence. Those of us who are born with it usually learn to look at the world with a different eye. Hopefully, in most cases, it is with a deeper perception and a big heart.
I live with TS every day and every night. I would be a different person were it not for my TS. I'm not cursed or "doomed" to live a life with TS. I am blessed to have been given an open heart for people who are not the same as me and the ability to look at people with a more unbiased discernment - a difficult task in today's untrusting society. To get a deeper look at what TS is and looks like, take a look at this excerpt from HBO's I Have Tourettes, But Tourettes Doesn't Have Me.
March 23, 2013
What is it?
As I originally said in the beginning, I created this blog as a portal into the world of Tourette Syndrome. I planned it originally to be a follow-up to an informational lecture. However, said lectures will not be taking place until later in the year, so that being said I thought it would be nice to give everyone a general explanation of what TS is.
Tourette Syndrome is a genetic neurological disorder characterized by involuntary motor and vocal tics including, but not limited to: shaking, jerking, pressing, squeaking, etc. No one case is the same. The tics are preceded by a premonitory urge. Attempting to suppress the tics only causes undue stress on the individual. In order to be diagnosed with TS, one has to have motor tics and at least one vocal tic for a period of more than one year. This does not mean that the tics stay the same. They are always changing in frequency, type, and severity. Coprolalia (involuntary swearing) is the most publicized part of TS. However, it is only one cheerio in the box. Less than 10% of the TS population has it and just because they get it, doesn't mean they'll always have it. As I said, tics come and go.
I will say one thing about Coprolalia on my proverbial soap box. First off, it's offensive to the TS Community that that is all most people are shown about us. It gives a bad, limited image of an already lesser-known disorder. Secondly, it doesn't really reflect badly on us. It reflects badly on the narcissistic, single minded people behind all that bad publicity - that they would stoop so low as to make something serious into a joke to get a boost in ratings, get a laugh, etc. at others' expense.
Tourette Syndrome is a genetic neurological disorder characterized by involuntary motor and vocal tics including, but not limited to: shaking, jerking, pressing, squeaking, etc. No one case is the same. The tics are preceded by a premonitory urge. Attempting to suppress the tics only causes undue stress on the individual. In order to be diagnosed with TS, one has to have motor tics and at least one vocal tic for a period of more than one year. This does not mean that the tics stay the same. They are always changing in frequency, type, and severity. Coprolalia (involuntary swearing) is the most publicized part of TS. However, it is only one cheerio in the box. Less than 10% of the TS population has it and just because they get it, doesn't mean they'll always have it. As I said, tics come and go.
I will say one thing about Coprolalia on my proverbial soap box. First off, it's offensive to the TS Community that that is all most people are shown about us. It gives a bad, limited image of an already lesser-known disorder. Secondly, it doesn't really reflect badly on us. It reflects badly on the narcissistic, single minded people behind all that bad publicity - that they would stoop so low as to make something serious into a joke to get a boost in ratings, get a laugh, etc. at others' expense.
March 20, 2013
Music To My Ears
Good Evening! I got some great inspiration for my blog today and thought I would give my own spin on it. I was reading a comment on the TS FaceBook group I belong to and a boy mentioned how music helps him. I love music. I have noise-canceling headphones that I wear with MP3 player and I love it. It's like reading a good book in that it can feel like I'm in a whole new world. (No pun intended lol) When I put them on and I start singing and dancing, my tics don't bother me. They outside world takes a back seat and so do my tics.
So, an update on Jazzercise. I love it! I took tap and jazz when I was little and it's so great to be dancing again. Then there's that great perk of getting exercise. I've been going every other day with little to no soreness. I was talking to a friend at Jazzercise the other day and mentioned that I had TS. Her reply was, "You must have them (my tics) really under control." However, I explained to her that when I dance, the tics take a back seat because I'm so focused on what I'm doing. Not to mention there's so much movement going on that I don't have time to tic! That's a good thing by the way. I have also noticed an improvement in mood and anxiety levels. It's so that I always look forward to going back.
So, an update on Jazzercise. I love it! I took tap and jazz when I was little and it's so great to be dancing again. Then there's that great perk of getting exercise. I've been going every other day with little to no soreness. I was talking to a friend at Jazzercise the other day and mentioned that I had TS. Her reply was, "You must have them (my tics) really under control." However, I explained to her that when I dance, the tics take a back seat because I'm so focused on what I'm doing. Not to mention there's so much movement going on that I don't have time to tic! That's a good thing by the way. I have also noticed an improvement in mood and anxiety levels. It's so that I always look forward to going back.
March 13, 2013
Tic Replacement
Has anyone ever been sitting in class, a business meeting, or a friendly get-together and all of the sudden there's a sudden twinge in your foot and you feel like if you don't scratch it, you'll just scream? So you take your discreetly move your foot around pretending that nothing is going on, but that itch is still there and you cannot get it to stop. That is what some tics feel like. If you don't press, shake, sniff, etc. just right, not only will the feeling not go away, but it gets worse.
I have a particularly bad pressing tic on my shoulder. Sometimes my muscles get sore and tense from it too. Unfortunately, when it's bad, no matter how many times I press, the feeling will not go away. I heard about this thing called tic replacement therapy or habit reversal. A consultant of mine suggested getting a hand grip and whenever I have the tic, instead of pressing my shoulder, to press on the hand grip. Now for someone with TS, a regular grip wouldn't cut it, because there's individual fingers involved. While researching different grips, I found the Grip Master. It can work your fingers individually and has a number of uses. The best part is they're small and discreet and there's different strengths for different people. I ended up getting mine on Amazon and going with the extra light tension, which is 3lbs. per finger, which may sound like a lot but actually isn't. There's an xxlight too.
So, I suppose you're all wondering what I thought of it. I was pretty hesitant about it at first. Would it work? Would it cause another tic? It's no miracle cure and it didn't help overnight, but I found that by working each finger individually and/or all at once (with the hand that did the pressing) that it did actually seem to help. It reduced the tic. The trick has been to remember that I have it and when I get the tic, to use my gripper.
I have a particularly bad pressing tic on my shoulder. Sometimes my muscles get sore and tense from it too. Unfortunately, when it's bad, no matter how many times I press, the feeling will not go away. I heard about this thing called tic replacement therapy or habit reversal. A consultant of mine suggested getting a hand grip and whenever I have the tic, instead of pressing my shoulder, to press on the hand grip. Now for someone with TS, a regular grip wouldn't cut it, because there's individual fingers involved. While researching different grips, I found the Grip Master. It can work your fingers individually and has a number of uses. The best part is they're small and discreet and there's different strengths for different people. I ended up getting mine on Amazon and going with the extra light tension, which is 3lbs. per finger, which may sound like a lot but actually isn't. There's an xxlight too.
So, I suppose you're all wondering what I thought of it. I was pretty hesitant about it at first. Would it work? Would it cause another tic? It's no miracle cure and it didn't help overnight, but I found that by working each finger individually and/or all at once (with the hand that did the pressing) that it did actually seem to help. It reduced the tic. The trick has been to remember that I have it and when I get the tic, to use my gripper.
March 06, 2013
Jazzercise
Good afternoon everyone!
It's been a great morning. My mum and I spent the morning making carrot scones, cream of carrot soup, and eggy bagels. Mmmm, the house smells so good and everything came out so well. My first cream soup all on my own. :D Yay!
So this week I started a new workout routine. During this time of year my anxiety levels are higher and in succession, so are my tics. I've been experiencing lots of grimacing, eye crossing, and muscle clenching tics. We had been look for a place for me for while. Something that would be interactive, easy on the knees, and had multiple classes a week. We found Jazzercise. It combines Jazz, aerobics, kick boxing, and yoga to make sure you get to work all your muscles. There are ladies in my classes ranging from their teens to their eighties - no joke! Each class is a little different so that you don't get bored and the instructors are fully licensed and tell you how to do it so that you don't injure yourself or if you have a sensitive area. So, far I've experienced minimal soreness the following days and I always feel good afterwards. I definitely don't have to worry about ticcing during Jazzercise. I'm going to keep it up and see how things go. I will let you know in a two weeks how it's going, so make sure you come back for an update! I'm off to peruse the isles of Books-A-Million (BAM).
It's been a great morning. My mum and I spent the morning making carrot scones, cream of carrot soup, and eggy bagels. Mmmm, the house smells so good and everything came out so well. My first cream soup all on my own. :D Yay!
So this week I started a new workout routine. During this time of year my anxiety levels are higher and in succession, so are my tics. I've been experiencing lots of grimacing, eye crossing, and muscle clenching tics. We had been look for a place for me for while. Something that would be interactive, easy on the knees, and had multiple classes a week. We found Jazzercise. It combines Jazz, aerobics, kick boxing, and yoga to make sure you get to work all your muscles. There are ladies in my classes ranging from their teens to their eighties - no joke! Each class is a little different so that you don't get bored and the instructors are fully licensed and tell you how to do it so that you don't injure yourself or if you have a sensitive area. So, far I've experienced minimal soreness the following days and I always feel good afterwards. I definitely don't have to worry about ticcing during Jazzercise. I'm going to keep it up and see how things go. I will let you know in a two weeks how it's going, so make sure you come back for an update! I'm off to peruse the isles of Books-A-Million (BAM).
February 27, 2013
Forget Exposing and Start Expressing
I was very fortunate in that not only was I raised by an educated, understanding mother, but also that I was diagnosed with Tourettes' when I was very young, allowing me to have a longer adjusting period. I remember the day I told my mum what I was experiencing. She was downstairs doing laundry and over the past several days or weeks I had been experiencing urges to shake my arm or torso or to press on objects, such as the table. I went downstairs, perched on the dryer, and told her what had been going on. She had an inkling as to the cause, so we immediately took me took the doctor and I was fully diagnosed and set up with a neurologist at Columbus Children's within a year.
All through my growing up years my mum supported me and made certain that that I knew how important it was that I knew that my TS was nothing to be ashamed of and that all I had to say to someone was, "I have Tourettes'." At first it was a little awkward to tell people and I even went through a period where I didn't want people to know that I have TS. I felt like I was exposing myself and that if I told them, they may not accept me. I'm 23 years old now and over the past few years, I have been working hard to become comfortable with having TS - I had to learn that TS is not what I am, but rather it is a part of who I am. Now I can say to anyone with confidence and a smile, "Yeah I have Tourettes'." The important thing to take away from this story is that when one exudes confidence and comfortability people draw on that. In other words, when you're okay with it, it helps them to be too.
All through my growing up years my mum supported me and made certain that that I knew how important it was that I knew that my TS was nothing to be ashamed of and that all I had to say to someone was, "I have Tourettes'." At first it was a little awkward to tell people and I even went through a period where I didn't want people to know that I have TS. I felt like I was exposing myself and that if I told them, they may not accept me. I'm 23 years old now and over the past few years, I have been working hard to become comfortable with having TS - I had to learn that TS is not what I am, but rather it is a part of who I am. Now I can say to anyone with confidence and a smile, "Yeah I have Tourettes'." The important thing to take away from this story is that when one exudes confidence and comfortability people draw on that. In other words, when you're okay with it, it helps them to be too.
February 21, 2013
Blanket Hug
Good Morning,
It's been a busy week - writing papers and putting together my career portfolio. When the stress piles up and tension is high, my tics get worse. Fatigue can be a big contributer to bad tic episodes. A few months back, I started having really bad shaking tics (a type of motor tic) through my whole body right before I was ready to go to sleep. I've always had to wind down for bed hours in advance, because that's how long it takes for my nervous system to calm down. For some reason, my usual routine wasn't doing the trick. So, I started my search.
I had heard about this thing called a weighted blanket from that show Parenthood with the boy who has Aspergers. I learned that it was originally used for autistic children to quiet the nervous system. So, I consulted my physician and ordered one from Mosaic. I loved it from the start. It was comforting, like a hug, and actually helped to quiet my nervous system. The website explains the different disorders and why it is good for them. To this day, rarely does a night go by when I don't use my blanket.
Another website to look at is SensaCalm. Both websites have other gadgets and helpful information as well. I encourage you to check them out, whether you have a neurological disorder, insomnia, anxiety, or just need something to help you wind down at the end of the day.
Peace!
It's been a busy week - writing papers and putting together my career portfolio. When the stress piles up and tension is high, my tics get worse. Fatigue can be a big contributer to bad tic episodes. A few months back, I started having really bad shaking tics (a type of motor tic) through my whole body right before I was ready to go to sleep. I've always had to wind down for bed hours in advance, because that's how long it takes for my nervous system to calm down. For some reason, my usual routine wasn't doing the trick. So, I started my search.
I had heard about this thing called a weighted blanket from that show Parenthood with the boy who has Aspergers. I learned that it was originally used for autistic children to quiet the nervous system. So, I consulted my physician and ordered one from Mosaic. I loved it from the start. It was comforting, like a hug, and actually helped to quiet my nervous system. The website explains the different disorders and why it is good for them. To this day, rarely does a night go by when I don't use my blanket.
Another website to look at is SensaCalm. Both websites have other gadgets and helpful information as well. I encourage you to check them out, whether you have a neurological disorder, insomnia, anxiety, or just need something to help you wind down at the end of the day.
Peace!
February 14, 2013
Intro
Hey Everyone!
Welcome to Tourettisms -Observations from an Irish Princess. For those of you who don't know my middle name is Erin, which means Princess of the Isles, hence the name for this blog. I will be posting as least once a week, hopefully more once this takes off. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.
My first topic is about a Tourette Syndrome (TS) Awareness Campaign I'm doing in the Ohio Valley. I am taking the message to a number of audiences, because I feel that it is important that we get the word out there about what TS really is and how to deal with it. Back in March of 2012 my dad and I went to the National Tourette Syndrome Association (TSA) conference in Arlington, VA. I encountered others with TS and many supporters. It was a great experience and I can't wait to go back in 2014.
Have a blessed day!
Welcome to Tourettisms -Observations from an Irish Princess. For those of you who don't know my middle name is Erin, which means Princess of the Isles, hence the name for this blog. I will be posting as least once a week, hopefully more once this takes off. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.
My first topic is about a Tourette Syndrome (TS) Awareness Campaign I'm doing in the Ohio Valley. I am taking the message to a number of audiences, because I feel that it is important that we get the word out there about what TS really is and how to deal with it. Back in March of 2012 my dad and I went to the National Tourette Syndrome Association (TSA) conference in Arlington, VA. I encountered others with TS and many supporters. It was a great experience and I can't wait to go back in 2014.
Have a blessed day!
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