Tourette Syndrome Awareness
Hi, my name is Adam Farris, and I have Tourette Syndrome — but Tourette Syndrome does NOT have me.
Each year, Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month runs from May 15th to June 15th. Please help me in supporting the Tourette Association of America. You can learn more about Tourette Syndrome by visiting this link:
👉 https://tourette.org/about-tourette/overview/what-is-tourette/
I was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at the age of 6, and I am now 37 years old. During my teenage years, my symptoms were very challenging — I had loud hooting and shouting noises that were hard to control.
When I asked my parents if I could still go out to places like movie theaters and restaurants, they always said yes. My father, in particular, was a major influence on me. He taught me from a young age to be my own advocate — to be proud of who I am and not to hide from the world because of my condition. Whenever someone would comment on my tics or make rude remarks, my father encouraged me to confidently explain:
"This is who I am. This is what I have. If it bothers you, you are free to go somewhere else. But I am staying here and enjoying myself."
Because of my father's guidance, I learned early on to stand up for myself with dignity and strength.
Tourette Syndrome has impacted my life in many ways. At one point, a former doctor had me on high doses of anti-psychotic medications, which left me feeling like a zombie — constantly tired, unable to concentrate, and struggling with severe hand tremors. Thankfully, we found a new doctor who truly understands me and helps manage my condition better today.
I currently work as a cashier at a retail store in Houston, Texas. Sometimes, you might see me struggling a little with tasks like bagging items, especially fragile ones, due to the shakiness in my hands. If I ask for assistance, I truly appreciate your patience and understanding — even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Living with Tourette's is a bit like having hiccups. Even when you try to hold it back, your body eventually forces it out. You can't always control when a tic happens, and trying to suppress it only builds tension until it must be released.
But always remember:
I have Tourette Syndrome. Tourette Syndrome does not have me.
💬 To anyone out there living with Tourette Syndrome:
You are not alone. There are support groups and communities that can help you feel connected and empowered. Please don’t isolate yourself. Get out into the world — go to restaurants, enjoy public spaces. If someone makes a comment or a face, confidently tell them,
"I have Tourette’s. This is part of who I am, and I cannot help it."
According to the CDC:
Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a condition of the nervous system that causes people to have “tics” — sudden, repetitive movements, twitches, or sounds that they cannot easily control. Just like hiccups, tics may be temporarily suppressed but must eventually happen.
Ways to support and help out Tourette's and The TS Community:
1. Get Involved with the Tourette Syndrome Association of America 👉 https://tourette.org/get-involved/give-donate/
2. Visit my Tourette to share your TS Story 👉 https://www.mytourette.org/
3. Join your local Tourette chapter 👉 https://tourette.org/resources/local-support/
4. Register to become a brain Bank donor as an individual with Tourette syndrome. And donate your brain whenever you pass away to research Tourette's 👉 https://tourette.org/about-tourette/overview/brain-bank-2/
5. Sponsor or join a Team Tourette Event: https://www.teamtourette.org/
Please visit Adam Farris on his website
