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.