LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — One in 50 school-aged children in the United States is affected by Tourette syndrome, according to the Tourette Association of America (TAA). Lima Central Catholic junior Addison Fay, who was diagnosed with the neurological disorder at age 13, is working to raise awareness and break stigmas.
Fay has been named a Youth Ambassador for the Tourette Association of America, one of just 108 ambassadors nationwide. She joined Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith's weekly news briefing this week to speak about Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders.
Fay emphasized that while Tourette syndrome plays a role in her life, it does not define who she is.
“Definitely embrace it,” Fay said. “Because when I was younger and when I first got diagnosed, I didn’t, and it was harder for me. Now, later in life, I’ve actually put my feet on the ground and found out how to put that out into my world. And now I use it — being a youth ambassador for the Tourette Association of America — informing my friends and my family just about this diagnosis that not a lot of people know about.”
Fay emphasized that while Tourette syndrome plays a role in her life, it does not define who she is. Tourette Awareness Month runs from May 15 to June 15. The campaign aims to increase understanding and support for those living with Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders.
