Below is the flyer for the recent Tourette Syndrome conference held in Monroeville, PA. ‘JAW’ (Joshua) and ‘CAW’ (that’s me, Cheryl) presented on how having ‘Tourette Syndrome Plus’ (that’s Tourette Syndrome + Other Disorders) affects a family.

Jay Goodman, a retired firefighter that does in-services and presentations on Tourette all over the country also spoke, and his story is an incredible one. He did not learn he had Tourette until he was in his thirties, and had experienced much heartache and anger until that time. Now he gives back, so that other kids don’t have to live as he did.

Tracy Grieve-Martin also spoke, the therapist that has been involved in Joshua’s life for six years, and has improved the quality of life so much that this family will forever be grateful. Her devotion to Joshua and her commitment to doing whatever she can for him, and learning how to do what she can’t, is part of the reason why Joshua is such a success today; and why all of the children that have been touched by her, or something that she has administrated, are lucky children indeed.

Also, Paul Kriger, President of PA-TSA (Penna Tourette Syndrome Assn) spoke, and explained why PA-TSA is such an important organization for families touched by Tourette, and why public support of them is so vital. With only a staff of five persons in their office, and consistent funding cutbacks by the state, they are moving as many mountains for Tourette families as they can.

It was a nice turnout, and we were all very pleased with the terrific questions that were asked, and the insightful comments that were made by everyone. We learned from the audience, too, which made the day a success by any standards.

Josh and I made certain that we also mentioned our involvement in the world of NASCAR, and the many ways our lives have been blessed by being connected with this sport. We were able to tell everyone about the driver named Bill Hoff that will run with the Tourette Syndrome Awareness ribbon, and the cawsnjaws.com and PA-TSA logos, on his car at the Busch race in Nazareth, PA, on May 23, and what that means to us all.

We were also able to let everyone know that on Tuesday, May 11, Josh and I will be interviewed by Dr. Maria Simbra of KDKA-TV, for a health segment on KDKA’s local news. The moment that we know when that will be, I will post the information (it may be as soon as that day’s late afternoon or evening news).

After the conference was over, I was absolutely thrilled to have many members of the audience approach Joshua to tell him what a great job he had done. As you may have heard me say before, Joshua has more confidence in public speaking than I do, and has always done a fabulous job. If you ever get the chance to hear him speak, please do.