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Skier races toward Tourette Syndrome Awareness

Kyla Butler and her family received a proclamation from Jefferson Township Mayor Russell Felter which recognizes June 4th as TS Awareness Day.

Kyla Butler and her family received a proclamation from Jefferson Township Mayor Russell Felter which recognizes June 4th as TS Awareness Day.

Kyla Butler of Oak Ridge, NJ, is making a name for herself not only as one of the top skiers in the tri-state area but also as an advocate for Tourette Syndrome.

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements or sounds known as tics and is frequently accompanied by other neurological or mental health disorders. 1 in 100 school-age children lives with TS and many report feelings of isolation and have been bullied because of their disorder.

Kyla was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome in third grade but she never let it hold her back. This past March, Kyla represented the state of New Jersey in Gilford, New Hampshire at the Pice Invitational Ski Race for the second year in a row. She was invited to participate in this race after placing in the top 10 in her age group and third in New Jersey this year.

Now, this sixth grader strives to raise awareness of this misunderstood, misdiagnosed disorder and she is starting in her own backyard. On May 18, 2016, Kyla met with Mayor Russell Felter and asked him to recognize June 4th as Tourette Syndrome Awareness Day in Jefferson Township.

Kyla encourages everyone to learn more about Tourette Syndrome to combat the stigma these children face. Her efforts represent the spirit of The GreaTS movement which recently was launched by the NJ Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders, Inc (NJCTS) and soccer star Tim Howard. The GreaTS is a worldwide movement which aims to help individuals with TS and associated mental health disorders develop the confidence, leadership, and self-advocacy skills necessary to overcome their challenges and find their own paths to personal greatness.

“We applaud Kyla’s good work and she is part of a statewide effort to have June 4th recognized as Tourette Syndrome Awareness Day in every corner of New Jersey,” said NJCTS Executive Director Faith W. Rice. “By educating others, we hope that each new generation will grow up with a better understanding of TS, making biases a thing of the past. Kyla is truly One of The GreaTS!”

The Butler Family proudly displays their Mayor's proclamation

The Butler Family proudly displays their Mayor’s proclamation

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