908-575-7350

New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome Commended by Sires

Congressman recognizes Tourette Syndrome Month from the House Floor

May 23, 2014- May 15 – June 15 is Tourette Syndrome Month and New Jersey Congressman Albio Sires showed his support before Congress where he took the opportunity to recognize the work of the New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome & Associated Disorders (NJCTS).

Rep. Sires stood before the U.S. Congress and commended NJCTS for its “tireless pursuit to improve the lives of those impacted by this disorder.”

Rep. Albio Sires (D-8) honors Tourette Syndrome Month

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements or sounds known as tics. According to the Centers for Disease Control, as many as 1 in 100 people show symptoms of the disorder. Right now there is no cure, but collaborative programs by NJCTS have led to significant breakthroughs in TS research. The Center is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.

Still, there is much to be discovered to lead to a cure. That’s why Congressman Sires introduced the Collaborative Academic Research Efforts for Tourette Syndrome Act of 2014 in March. The goal of the legislation would be to amend the existing Public Health Service Act to create TS-specific programs through the National Institutes of Health. This is a re-introduction of a bill Rep. Sires has championed in earlier Congressional sessions.

“TS is often underdiagnosed and frequently misunderstood,” said NJCTS Executive Director Faith W. Rice, “Having an advocate like Congressman Sires is a major step in creating the acceptance and understanding that will help so many Americans.”

“It is my hope that through better understanding of TS, we can lift the veil of this disorder and enhance the lives of so many, ” said Congresman Sires.

To learn more about Tourette Syndrome or how you can commemorate TS Month (now through June 15), visit www.njcts.org.

### Collaborative Partnerships for the Tourette Syndrome community

Collaborations and partnerships for the Tourette Syndrome community.

NJCTS is celebrating its 10th year in 2014