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NJCTS Youth Advocate Bryce Hanley Educates Second Graders at Parsons Elementary

On Thursday December 5, NJ Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders (NJCTS) Youth Advocate Bryce Hanley, 17, of Pennington presented an introduction to Tourette Syndrome to approximately 100 second grade students at Parsons Elementary School in North Brunswick.

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurobiological disorder characterized by uncontrollable movements and sounds known as tics. As many as 1 in 50 people show signs of TS or other tic disorders which is frequently accompanied by mental health disorders including ADHD, OCD, and anxiety.

Bryce was diagnosed with TS at the age of six as well as OCD and anxiety, which are two commonly co-occurring disorders.  She is now a senior at Hopewell Valley Central High School. Bryce has been a Youth Advocate with NJCTS since 2024, this being her first time presenting at a New Jersey school to educate her peers about TS and what it means to live with this commonly misunderstood neurological disorder.

“My goal is to still spread some kind of awareness to make sure others like me don’t struggle as much before getting to the place I’m now in,” says Bryce. Youth Advocates teach children to be accepting of everyone, no matter their differences. “Even if Tourette’s is what you see on the outside, it does not define who I am. It is simply just a part of me, and I am proud to be here today to share my experiences with you.”

The NJCTS Youth Advocate Program trains children and teens, ages 10 to 18, to lead presentations to student groups about Tourette Syndrome and its associated disorders. Advocates are empowered by sharing their experiences in front of audiences of all sizes and attendees receive a strong anti-bullying message that promotes acceptance, tolerance, and self-advocacy for all. These presentations are given in classrooms or to full assemblies.

New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders is a non-profit organization whose mission is to ensure children and adults with Tourette Syndrome and associated disorders are empowered and accepted through education, advocacy and research. Our focus is on providing high quality educational programs to the public, medical professionals, and teachers; advocating for individuals and families impacted by the disorder; and supporting ongoing and new research into the causes and treatments of Tourette Syndrome. Learn more at www.njcts.org or call 908-575-7350.