Life with Tourettes
Life with Tourettes - full story
30 September, 2012
Reporter: Rahni Sadler
Producer: Alex Garipoli
In this remarkable story, reporter Rahni Sadler meets with some who suffer from perhaps the most bizarre and publicly embarrassing of all syndromes.
These people have Tourettes: all have an uncontrollable urge to shout and swear inappropriately. At other times they experience debilitating physical ticks which are often so violent they hit themselves and shake as if having a seizure.
We meet Jess, who finds it impossible to control the urge to say the word ‘biscuit’. She says the word hundreds if not thousands of times every single day, often while punching herself in the chest.
This brave young woman now runs an online worldwide support group to increase understanding of their fascinating condition. They invite Sunday Night into their lives to experience what it’s like to live with Tourettes.
Sadler also meets an amazing young jazz singer, Ruth, who transforms from swearing and uncontrollable physical ticking, to a composed and talented songstress on stage.
If you’d like to find out more about Tourettes support you can visit Touretteshero or the Touretteshero Facebook page and Twitter.
The main point of contact for information, research, support and networking throughout Australia in regards to Tourettes Syndrome is the Tourette Syndrome Association of Australia. You can phone them on (02) 9382 3726.
CONTACT SUNDAY NIGHT
