During the course of his many years of service to the citizens of New Jersey, Senator Frank R. Lautenberg earned the distinction of being a champion for causes that would benefit the Garden State’s plethora of children – including those in the Tourette Syndrome and Autism communities. On June 3, that champion was lost as Senator Lautenberg passed away at age 89.
The New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome & Associated Disorders (NJCTS) is honored to have received Senator Lautenberg’s acknowledgment, support and time, not only because he represents the interests of New Jersey families with TS, but also for his compassion and dedication that dates back to his years as a highly successful businessman. Our sincerest condolences go out to Senator Lautenberg’s family, friends and close colleagues at this time.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Senator Lautenberg, who has been a great friend and supporter of our organization and the Tourette Syndrome community for many years,” NJCTS Executive Director Faith W. Rice said. “Senator Lautenberg served our community and the entire state of New Jersey with care, dignity and respect, and he will be sincerely missed.”
NJCTS fondly remembers its final interaction with Senator Lautenberg, a meeting at his Newark office in which two member families joined NJCTS to discuss with the Senator the needs of the TS community as well as the importance of the landmark federal Tourette legislation aimed at establishing centers of excellence similar to NJCTS at sites across the country.
“It’s a sad day for New Jersey and for our organization,” said Marc Brummer, the proprietor of Hobby’s Delicatessen in Newark and a member of NJCTS’ Board of Trustees. “He was a good man – a self-made man with humble beginnings who fought for his country, built a hugely successful business and finished his years serving the country he loved. Thank you, Senator Lautenberg.”