Winter 2009 Vol 3, Issue 3
  Bonne Nouvelle
Your "Good News" from TSA of Texas

TSA of TX:  Helping Children and Changing Lives 

     Tourette's syndrome is a neurobehavioral (brain-based) movement disorder characterized by motor and vocal tics.  Beginning in childhood, it causes those affected to make movements and noises they cannot control.  Additionally, many are plagued by obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, oppositional behavior and other disorders.  Although medication may help control the symptoms, as of yet there is no cure.  TSA of Texas, one of the largest chapters in the country, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.  We directly assist Texas area families and children in crisis, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 
From the Desk of the President
Daryl BristerThe Gift...
 
     Her name was Mrs. Jackson and her smile was a mile wide. She came out this past Saturday morning to work with a group of volunteers on the Habitat home that will soon belong to her daughters and grandkids. If you could have seen her face, you would understand just how big this is for her. She is so proud that her family will no longer have to live in an apartment complex and the kids will have their own yard to play in for the first time in their lives. And all these volunteers giving the gift of their time and energy to help build this home - no gift could be greater for Mrs. Jackson.
     As I hammered nails on this home to be, I thought about all the ways we can make a difference in the lives of others around us.  I encouraged several members of the younger generation who came out to continue volunteering and looking for ways to give back. For many years now, I've been broken hearted to see the lack of concern for others by the younger generations.  They seem so focused on themselves, which makes it hard to see others around us.
     It really doesn't take much to make a difference, but for some reason getting started appears to be a hill too high to even start climbing for many. As we close out 2009 and open up 2010, let me challenge each of you to turn the page on giving the GIFT of your time, energy and money. Now money is the easiest thing to give, even in the tough economic times we're going through. It only means we might give a little less than we normally give. But your hard earned money still goes a long way to help kids and families dealing with TS --  and it's you that's making a difference in the lives of those families. My challenge to all of us for 2010 is to do even more than making a monetary donation. Find ways to increase your involvement with TSA of Texas. We need your time and energy to really make a difference to kids and families living with TS. And it's really not as hard as it might first appear.

Time:
  • Learn the facts about TS and tell others to help us spread awareness.
  • Find a TS event in 2010 and volunteer your time to come out and take part.
  • If you're near a support group, go and sit in!  Get to know the families.  Even if your family doesn't need support, your experiences can make a big difference to a family dealing with a new diagnosis.
Energy: 
  • Working with our TS kids takes a lot of energy - if you know a family with a child struggling with TS, offer to spend a day with that child and give mom and dad a day to recharge.
  • Our support group leaders usually serve in isolation - your energy to help setup and breakdown for monthly meetings, arrange a speaker, bring snacks or help watch kids during those meeting will go a long way.
  • Use your energy to join with us in our fight against TS. Each day we are a step closer to fully understanding TS and that will hopefully lead to a cure one day!
    
     Our TSA of Texas Gala, "Deep in our Hearts" will take place on January 28, 2010 (see article below for more information). This is our largest fund raiser and it provides the dollars needed each year to help kids and families across the great state of Texas. As you might expect, it's proving to be a low year, so we need your help. Spread the word... if you or someone you know can make a donation, help us by getting those donations into our office.  As we are a 501(c)3 organization, all of your donations are tax deductible.
     Thanks for taking the time to read this and I hope you will be encouraged to work with us in 2010.  Happy New Year!
 
Daryl
In This Issue
From the President
Texas Support Groups
Save These Dates!
January Gala
Send Us Your Art, Poems and Stories
2010 Camp Dates
FREE TS Workshops in Dallas
Alley Theatre Outing in Houston
Treatment of TS with Tetrabenazine
Myths About Distractability and Solutions that WORK
Participants Needed for Internet-Based Survey
Holiday Tree Display
TSA of Texas Helps Student Teachers Understand TS
TS Information Available in Spanish
Support Group Spotlight: North Texas
Holiday Celebration Pictures
Museum Day Pictures
Thank You Supporters!
Dad Shaves Head to Motivate Son with TS
"Bonne Nouvelle"
Physician Referral List
Join our Mailing List!
Texas Hotlines
Houston:  281-238-8096
Toll Free:  866-894-8686
Emergency Pager: 800-209-0796
Quick Links
Texas Support Groups
TSA of Texas has support groups in AustinDallas, Fort Worth, East Texas/Golden Triangle, Gulf Coast, Katy, North Houston and San AntonioLearn More>>To start a support group in your area, please contact us toll free at 866-894-8686.   
Save These Dates!
  • January 16 - Houston outing to Alley Theatre's "Wonderland."
  • January 28 - TSA of Texas Annual Gala.  More information coming soon. 
  • January 29 - 30 - Sue Conners will be giving a free presentation in Dallas on TS in the classroom.  See article below for more information. 
  • February 6 - "Front of the Class" will re-air on CBS.  This Hallmark movie tells the inspiring story of Brad Cohen, TS sufferer, and how he became Teacher of the Year.   
  • February 19 - 20 - ADHD in 2010, the 22nd Annual Conference jointly sponsored by Cook Children's Medical Center and the Attention Deficit Disorders Association, takes place in Houston.  Click  here for more information.
  • April 9 - 11 - TSA of Texas 8th Annual du Ballon Rouge children's camping weekend.  See article below for more information. 
  • April 11 - Join TEAM TSA for the Big-D Texas Marathon in Dallas.  Participate in the marathon, half marathon or 5K.  Click here for more information or to register.  Please be sure to designate the Texas Chapter on your registration form to ensure TSA of Texas receives a portion of the funds you raise. 
  • April 15 - 18 - TSA National Conference in Alexandria, VA.  Click here for more information. 

January Gala:  Deep in Our Hearts in Texas

     Our annual fundraising gala will be held January 28, 2010 at the Houston Country Club.  A festive evening of reception, dinner and silent auction, Gala is THE major fundraiser of the year for TSA of Texas.  Gala provides us with funds needed for events, camp, in-service, support groups, direct client services and more -- for the entire state! 
     This year, more than ever, we need your support!  This year's theme is "Deep in Our Hearts in Texas" and we hope you will open your Texas-sized heart!  If you have ever considered attending gala or making a cash donation, please do it now!  Or consider helping us solicit corporate sponsorships and tables.  Individual tickets start at $200/person and tables of 10 start at $2,000.  Download ticket and table information here.  
     You can also support us by giving just a few minutes of your time.  Next time you visit your favorite restaurant, hotel, spa, sporting goods store, etc., ask if they would be willing to donate a gift certificate for our worthy cause.  Items from all cities are welcomed and needed - and all donations are tax deductible for the giver.  Anything and everything you do helps our entire TSA of Texas family.
     Download an Auction Donor Form here.  Contact Cindy at [email protected] for more details or to request a gala invitation.

Please Send Us Your Art, Poems and Stories

     We are seeking your artistic and literary creations to showcase in the Program for our January 28 Major Fundraising Gala.  Children and adults with TS as well as siblings, parents and other relatives are all invited to contribute.  Tell us your story, draw a picture, or compose a poem! 
     Our Gala theme is "Deep in Our Hearts in Texas" and your creations are welcome to complement this idea.  Include your first name, city, and age (if child). The Program goes to press on January 16, so please send your items soon.
     Handwritten and hand-drawn items are welcome and will be scanned for placement!  Email to [email protected] or mail originals to:

Cindy Sacks   
9407 Brown Leaf Circle
Houston, TX  77096

2010 Camp Dates are Here!

     Our 8th annual du Ballon Rouge TS children's camping weekend will be held Friday, April 9 though Sunday, April 11, 2010 at Camp For All in Burton, TX.  Mark your calendars and start filling in your paperwork.  You can download your camp forms (and save TSA of Texas the extra postage) by clicking here or on the camp forms button on the left of our home page at www.TouretteTexas.org.   Note that the "DBR7 Medical Profile" must be dated within 8 weeks of camp, but you may send in all your other forms NOW to reserve your place.   
     As always, du Ballon Rouge is free of charge to our children with T.S., but spaces may be limited, so start working on your paperwork soon.
     A huge thank you to the Gordon Hartman Family Foundation for underwriting the cost for kids in San Antonio to attend!
               dBR Logo

FREE TS Workshops with Sue Conners in Dallas

To register and for more information click here
 
January 29, 2010 
Tourette's Syndrome - Classroom Issues
9:00 am - 3:30 pm

This workshop will discuss the criteria for diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome and will include an in-depth description of all the symptomology. It will also deal with the most common neurological disorders associated with TS, in particular, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disabilities and the impact of all these disorders on social emotional well-being, classroom performance and behavior. It will include specific strategies and techniques for working with children with TS and its associated disorders in a variety of settings including the classroom.
 
January 30, 2010
Tourette's Syndrome - Parent
9:00 am - 3:30 pm

This workshop is intended to assist families dealing with Tourette Syndrome and associated disorders including Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Dysgraphia, Sensory issues and the impact of these disorders on school, family interactions and behavior. It will include a discussion on obtaining appropriate services in school as well as strategies for the home environment.

Adults with TS -- Join Us at the Alley Theatre on January 16th

     Through a partnership with the AlleyWays Community Partnership Program, TSA of Texas invites you to the Alley Theatre's presentation of "Wonderland" on Saturday, January 16, 2010 at 2:30 pm at the Alley Theatre in Houston.  Experience a new musical that twists the original story of Alice in Wonderland into a modern tale on how to find balance ... and how to follow our hearts.

     This fantastic new musical, with music by Frank Wildhorn (Jekyll & Hyde and The Civil War), lyrics by Jack Murphy (The Civil War ) and book by Gregory Boyd and Jack Murphy is one of the most exciting shows the Alley has ever produced.

     The choreography is created by three-time Emmy Award winner Marguerite Derricks and the gorgeous costumes are designed by Susan Hilferty who won the Tony Award for Wicked.  The St. Petersburg Times describes the show as "a visual feast, with dazzling costumes, marvelously funky dance and a flashy, high-tech production design."

RSVP now for your free tickets. 

Very limited quantity of tickets are still available.  
First come, first served!  21 and older, please.

 

Email Cindy at [email protected] to reserve your place.

Treatment of Tourette Syndrome with Tetrabenazine

Dr. Jankovicby Joseph Jankovic, MD
Professor of Neurology, Distinguished Chair in Movement Disorders,
Director, Parkinson's Disease Center and Movement Disorders Clinic,
Department of Neurology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas

     Tourette syndrome (TS) was long considered a rare, bizarre, psychological or psychiatric disorder, but the perception began to change in the 1960s when it was discovered that anti-psychotic drugs, also called "neuroleptics", improved tics. Since these drugs work by blocking the brain's dopamine receptors, their benefits to TS patients helped refocus attention from mental to organic (neurologic) cause, partly due to dopamine overactivity. The only two drugs currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of TS are haloperidol (Haldol) and pimozide (Orap).  While both of these drugs are quite effective in reducing motor and phonic tics, I rarely ever use them because of high frequency of adverse effects, such as sedation, weight gain, school phobia, and the risk of tardive dyskinesias. Tardive dyskinesia is a neurologic, potentially permanent, movement disorder manifested by persistent, involuntary movements, such as continuous mouth and tongue (chewing) movements, facial, neck, trunk and arm spasms (called tardive dystonia) and other abnormal movements. There are many other neuroleptics used in the treatment of TS, such as fluphenazine, risperidone, ziprasidone, and aripiprazole, but all have the potential risk of causing tardive dyskinesia.  The fear of tardive dyskinesia is one of the main reasons why I first became interested in tetrabenazine (Xenazine), a neuroleptic drug that does not cause tardive dyskinesia.  Similar to other neuroleptics, this drug provides anti-dopaminergic effect, but instead of blocking dopamine receptors, it depletes dopamine from the part of the brain, called the basal ganglia, which is thought to function abnormally in TS.  Since I first received a special permission to use tetrabenazine from the FDA in 1979, I have treated nearly two thousand patients with the drug.  Largely, as a result of studies performed by our team at Baylor College of Medicine, the FDA finally approved tetrabenazine for the treatment of chorea associated with Huntington disease in August, 2008. Although not yet approved by the FDA for the treatment of TS, clinical trials designed to lead to eventual FDA approval are currently planned and should start soon. Even though the drug is not yet approved, physicians have the legal right to prescribe it for non-approved ("off-label") uses, such as TS.  Based on our experience with tetrabenazine in hundreds and hundreds of patients, we believe that the drug is generally safe and effective, as long as it used appropriately, preferably by an experienced physician.  The main side effects, all of which are dose-related and resolve when the dosage is lowered or the drug is discontinued, include drowsiness, slowness of movement, mood changes, and restlessness. The benefits, namely reduction in the frequency and intensity of motor and phonic tics, usually outweigh the potential disadvantages.  Tetrabenazine has received "orphan drug" designation, which means that it is used for rare disorders. Therefore, it is distributed through central, specialty pharmacies, rather than local or regular mail-order pharmacies.  See the references below for further information about the therapeutic and adverse effects, pharmacology, and how to prescribe tetrabenazine.
 
References:
Jankovic J. Treatment of hyperkinetic movement disorders. Lancet Neurol 2009;8:844-56. 
 
Kenney C, Hunter C, Mejia N, Jankovic J. Tetrabenazine in the treatment of Tourette syndrome. J Ped Neurol 2007;5:9-13.  

Kenney C, Jankovic J. Tetrabenazine in the treatment of hyperkinetic movement disorders. Expert Rev Neurother 2006;6:7-17. 
 
TSA of Texas congratulates Joseph Jankovic, M.D. on his latest award.  Dr. Jankovic was selected as National Institute of Health Clinical Center "Great Teacher" and invited to present a lecture on "Treatment of Parkinson's Disease" on 12/9/2009.
Myths About Distractibility and Solutions that WORK
by Ann Dolin, M.Ed.
(printed with permission from www.ectutoring.com)
 
Myth: Tapping pencils, doodling, and rocking back and forth in the chair equals distraction.
 
Truth: We now know that children attend better when they move around or are given something to hold or touch.  Provide sensory input to help the child to focus.  Stress balls, chewing gum, and weighted lap pads provide an outlet for the 'fidgeter'. In addition, a recent study found the twistable Tangle Toy Jr. (tanglecreations.com) helped students to sustain effort and complete assignments accurately.  Movement is also essential.  Allow work to be done while standing up or pacing the room.
 
Myth: Students should quietly study in their room. 
Truth: Distractible students do best when an adult checks in periodically.  Choose a place away from the household action but close enough for you to monitor, such as the dining room.  Assist your child with getting started on the task at hand.  Have him set a timer for a short period of time with the goal of working consistently. By checking in when the timer rings, you'll be allowing him independence and creating accountability at the same time.   A portable 'study zone' with all materials (paper, pens, highlighters) in one place, is also helpful for students who always seem to be searching for supplies. 
 
Myth: If a student wanted to pay attention he could.
Truth: Kids that struggle to focus are consistently inconsistent.  One day they can concentrate perfectly, and the next day is a battle.  Their distractibility can be neurobiological in nature and they must be taught effective coping mechanisms.
Rather than nagging, use positive reinforcement and effective rewards.  Try a 'mystery motivator' - after your child is on task for an allotted period of time, he can choose a reward card from an envelope (15 minutes extra on Wii, 10 minute later bedtime, etc.).  The suspense of working towards an unknown prize is quite powerful for many.  
 
Additionally, research shows that placing a mirror in your child's work space will help him monitor his own attention. Your child is likely to refocus if he looks up and sees that he's off task. As an added benefit, keeping a mirror in the workspace was found to improve the accuracy assignments.
 
Did You Know? 
Elementary students were found to spend more time on task when listening to soft music in the background, than those without.  In a study of fifth grade science classes, researchers determined that there was a significant increase in on-task behavior when instrumental music was played in the background.  In fact, the positive effect was far greater in boys than girls mainly due to the fact that fewer girls exhibited off task behavior in the first place.
Create a playlist of jazz, classical, and instrumental songs with your child that can be listened to during homework time.    
 
Ann Dolin, M.Ed. is the President and Director of Educational Connections. She holds a B.A. in Child Psychology/Elementary Education and a Master's degree in Special Education, with a concentration in Learning Disabilities, from Boston College. Ann is a former Fairfax County, VA public school teacher with over 15 years of teaching and tutoring experience. After leaving FCPS in 1998, Ann founded Educational Connections as its only employee with the goal of providing individualized one-to-one instruction based on each student's learning style. Today, her company employs over 100 tutors, serves the entire metropolitan D.C. area, and has worked with over 2,000 students.

Participants Needed for Cincinnati Children's Hospital Internet-Based Survey

Brenton Brister & Team     Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have embarked on an important project related to various tic types that will help better serve patients' needs and gain a better understanding of what happens in the brain with tic disorders.   This research study has been reviewed and approved by TSA's national Medical Advisory Board.  
     To participate in the survey, please click here.  Please complete the survey only one time for each child with a tic disorder.  The survey should take between 20 to 40 minutes to complete.  You may take a break during the survey and return later, however, it is necessary to write down your validation code in order to re-enter the site.  Responses are submitted anonymously, without tracking IP addresses, and strict confidentiality is assured.  Your participation in this study is voluntary.  
     Should you have any questions about the study or the survey, please feel free to call the study coordinator, Cathy Meyer at 513-636-0229 or email her at [email protected].

Holiday Tree Display at Houston Museum of Natural Science

                                                      2009 Holiday Tree at HMNS    
 
 
     The TSA of Texas Holiday Tree "Deep in Our Hearts in Texas" was on display through January 3rd at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.  As usual, our tree was beautiful -- thanks in large measure to the adorable crafts made by the kids at our support groups!  We are one of only twelve non-profits invited to participate this holiday season.  It is a wonderful way to spread awareness and we thank HMNS for allowing us to participate once again.  

TSA of Texas Helps Student Teachers Understand Tourette's

     Each semester, Daryl and Barbara Brister, are invited to give a presentation to a new group of student teachers. The field supervisor shows the DVD, I Have Tourette's but Tourette's Doesn't Have Me, to set the tone for advocacy. The soon to be teachers are then guided through a power point presentation and packet of information to better help them in understanding what Tourette's syndrome really is and how they, as teachers, can help students be successful. Seeing each child that comes through their classroom door as a challenge and not a burden is a thought that is left with the group. The goal is to continue to help student teachers understand Tourette's.
TS Information Available in Spanish
     TSA now has a Spanish language 'Mini Site.'  Resources include a video for medical professionals, general information on Tourette Syndrome, articles on Adult issues, and 3 issues of TSA's Children's Newsletter, "That Darn Tic".  A particular highlight of the project is the dubbing of the "Newly Diagnosed" video presentation by Dr. John Walkup.  To view the Mini Site, simply go to www.tsa-usa.org and click on "en espa�ol" on the top menu bar.

Support Group Spotlight:  Lamborghini Signing in Dallas

Brenton Brister & Team   by Emily Stark, North Texas Support Group Leader
    
     On Saturday, November 28, 2009, Lamborghini Dallas sponsored an event for the benefit of the North Texas Tourette Syndrome Support Group and the Tourette Syndrome Association of Texas.  Guests were invited to sign a brand new Lamborghini for $1.00 an inch!  Members of the North Texas Support Group (Dawn, Nick, Jorge, Amy, Samantha, Stacy, Shawn, Ron and Emily) were on hand to assist with the signing and to sell space to eager patrons.  Andrew Bitterman was first in line to put his John Hancock on the car, and others lined up behind him - all anxious to make their mark on this beautiful vehicle.  Nick Rodriguez (from NTTSG) was invited to take a ride, and he didn't have to be asked twice!  I think his hands are still shaking!!  The wonderful folks at Lamborghini Dallas came up with this idea, set up a table for our TS handouts, provided templates to purchase and silver sharpies to sign with, and we were more than willing to participate!  The best part was the beautiful Lamborghini, and watching the individual faces light up as they viewed their handiwork after signing. Many thanks go out to Jordan Bars, Melissa Gautreaux and Shad Warren for offering this event to our group!  We had a lot of fun, spread awareness about TS and raised $800 - what better way to spend a Saturday! 

TSA of Texas Holiday  Celebrations Enjoyed by All

 
      
      
Brenton Brister & Team   Brenton Brister & Team     
      
 

Families Across Texas Enjoyed 3rd Annual Museum Day

 
Austin Support Group at Blanton 

        
 
Fire Museum of Texas   Dallas
 
Thank You to Our Supporters!   
    
     Our deepest thanks to all of the individuals and organizations that allow us to continue our mission of education, support, advocacy and direct client services.  Your generosity truly make a difference in the lives of children and families struggling with the challenges of Tourette's syndrome. 
 
 
Tori Adams and Jim DuBose (in honor of the Calcote family)
Chester B. Benge
Cathy and Bob Binstock
Tessie Binstock
Linda and Larry Blumenfeld
Marta and Martin Binstock
Robert Branton, Jr.
Denise Bush / Olga Bush / Gerald Bush
Ian Clark (in honor of the Brister family)
Mary T. Clegg
Jeaneane B. Duncan
Robert Dunshie
Bernice Feld
Rachel and Bud Frazier (in memory of Rocky Franzen)
Larry Harris / Multi-Faceted Associates
Mary and Jim Harris (United Way)
Gordon Hartman Family Foundation
Hawkins Family Foundation
Renee and John Hawkins
Janet and Mark Jacobs
Cathy and Dr. Joseph Jankovic
Karen and Mark Johnson
JRB Personnel, LLC (in memory of Art Briggs)
Lamborghini Dallas
Lynne Lipsitz
Melvin Lipsitz
Steve and Shelley Matcha
Beverly Maurice
Suzanne Miller
Polycom
Edlyn and David Pursell
Carlin and Damon Putman
Marlene and Dr. Anthony R. Riela
Regina Rogers (in memory of Rocky Franzen)
The Roundtop Collection
Lenoir M. Seelhorst
Dr. Shelley Sekula-Gibbs and Robert Gibbs
Virginia and L.E. Simmons Family Foundation
Sherri and Allen Tanner
Vinson and Elkins
Wickel Photography 
A.J. Wilkinson / Graphic Executive Service
Joanne G. Wilson
Winstead PC

Dad Shaves His Head to Motivate Son with TS

     Robbie Markwardt of Dallas is nine years old.  Throughout Robbie's schooling, he has struggled with grades and behavior due to the symptoms of TS. 
     Robbie's parents always meet with Robbie's teachers before school starts to discuss the upcoming year and educate the teachers about TS.  After meeting with Robbie's teacher this year, Robbie's dad, Ed Markwardt, was so excited about her committment to help Robbie that he told Robbie he would shave his head if Robbie made the "A" honor roll (straight A's) for any six-week grading period. The challenge was on!
     The first two grading periods Robbie made the A-B honor roll, barely missing the top honor. Robbie never though he would get close to making the "A" honor roll before this, but he told his dad he was determined to accomplish this goal and make sure his dad's head was shaved.  Robbie made a solid commitment to work harder than ever and his parents committed to helping him.  All that hard work really paid off - Robbie's last report card was all A's!  Ed headed to the barber to fulfill his end of the agreement. 
     Robbie's motivation to make the "A" honor roll amazed his parents.  His dad, who also has TS, has always stressed not to look at TS as a disability but as an opportunity to educate others.  Robbie often repeats a line we all recognize, "I have Tourette's, but Tourette's doesn't have me."  Ed says that's the way it should always be.  TS makes us stronger if we let it.
"Bonne Nouvelle"
Hayden Faubush of Cibolo (age 8) overcame many obstacles to make straight A's this year in second grade.  He also earned his blue belt in martial arts.  Shawn Gayan of Plano was promoted to the rank of Star in December 2009.   He is a member of Boy Scout Troop 198.  Timothy Gray of Amarillo (age 8) is having a difficult time with TS symptoms, but still received straight As on his report card.  He answered questions from his third grade classmates after his teacher read a book to them about TS.  Timothy also played a Wiseman in his church's Christmas program.  Daniel Maloney of Houston has  a new nephew.  Daniel's older brother Jason and his wife Amy welcomed Jude Michael Howard on October 9, 2009.  Scott Patrick completed his studies at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville with a BA in Music and is now teaching orchestra at two junior high schools in Humble.  His experience with TS has given him unique insight into student behaviors and educational needs.  Logan Sacks of Houston (age 19) earned all A's and one B in his Fall college classes.  Logan also won his premiere match in his first-ever state-wide competition in jujitsu.  Landon Schaeffer of Houston will graduate from Texas A&M College Station this May.  He just completed his weather man/meteorology internship with KBTX in Bryan.  This past summer, he was an intern with the Going Green Show with Yolanda Green with the CW station in Houston.  Rily Stewart, a Sophomore at Newman Smith High School in Carrollton, Texas, plays Trombone in the Mighty Trojan Marching Band.  On November 3, for the first time in the school's history, the Marching Band advanced from the Semi-Finals in the State 4A Competition in San Antonio, Texas, to the Finals to finish 6th place out of 372. 
Congratulations to all of these hard working superstars!  
      
     Please send us your "Bonne Nouvelle!"  Has your child received straight A's?  Recently graduated from college?  Are you, as a person with TS, successfully juggling home and family?  We would love to hear about your "good news" for future issues.  Please send your information to [email protected].
Physician Referral List
TSA of Texas maintains a list of Texas physicians who are experienced with TS.  To receive a PRL for your area, please email [email protected] with your city location.  We are also seeking to expand our list, particularly in smaller cities, so if you have a physician who does a great job dealing with TS, please email us his or her contact information.  PHYSICIANS:  if you are interested in learning more about TS or being considered for our PRL, please contact Sheryl Kadmon, Executive Director, at 281-238-8096 or 866-896-8484.
How Can TSA of Texas Help You?
TSA of Texas is here to assist families dealing with TS throughout the state.  We offer:
  • EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATIONS for physicians, school districts, students, parents and the community.   
  • INFORMATION DISSEMINATION via packets, brochures and telephone conversations.  
  • LIBRARY of DVDs, videotapes and books. 
  • REFERRAL to physicians, therapists, community services, and state and county agencies.  
  • ADVOCACY through assistance with ARDs, IEP, 504 or OHI classification.  
  • SUPPORT GROUPS throughout the state.  
  • CHILDREN'S WEEKEND camping program "du Ballon Rouge."
  • FAMILY ACTIVITIES such as baseball games, museum visits, swim parties, and more. 
  • SPECIAL FUNDING sources such as the Kenneth H. Davis Family Assistance Fund and Fund A Need. 
  • ...and much, much MORE! 

Call TSA of Texas at 281-238-8096 (toll-free 1-866-894-8686) or email [email protected] for more information.  If you have needs other than those listed above, please let us know and we will do our best to help. 

How Can You Help TSA of Texas? 

TSA of Texas funds its services through private donations, fundraising events and grant support.  We receive no state or federal funding.  You can help TSA of Texas and support Texas families dealing with TS by:

  • ATTENDING our fundraising events (e.g., our major Gala held each January and our Tee-Off for Tourette in October)
  • DONATING items or gift certificates for Silent Auction at Gala or Tee-Off 
  • ORDERING a tribute card sent in honor of someone's special event,  
  • CONTRIBUTING via cash, check or credit card to our general fund or a support group of your choice,
  • LINKING your Randall's Remarkable Card to charity #2493, or 
  • REQUESTING a Kroger Neighbor to Neighbor bar code to link to your Kroger Share card..

All donations are totally tax deductible.  Learn More>>  

Bonne Nouvelle is published quarterly by TSA of Texas.  It is edited by Shelley Matcha and Cindy Sacks.