16 May 2026
Tourette Syndrome Month
Hi, my name is Adam Farris, and I have Tourette Syndrome — but Tourette Syndrome does NOT have me.
Each year, Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month runs from May 15th to June 15th. Please help me in supporting the Tourette Association of America.
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I was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at the age of 6, and I am now 37 years old. During my teenage years, my symptoms were very challenging — I had loud hooting and shouting noises that were hard to control.
When I asked my parents if I could still go out to places like movie theaters and restaurants, they always said yes. My father, in particular, was a major influence on me. He taught me from a young age to be my own advocate — to be proud of who I am and not to hide from the world because of my condition. Whenever someone would comment on my tics or make rude remarks, my father encouraged me to confidently explain: “This is who I am. This is what I have. If it bothers you, you are free to go somewhere else. But I am staying here and enjoying myself.” Because of my father’s guidance, I learned early on to stand up for myself with dignity and strength.
Tourette Syndrome has impacted my life in many ways. At one point, a former doctor had me on high doses of anti-psychotic medications, which left me feeling like a zombie — constantly tired, unable to concentrate, and struggling with severe hand tremors. Thankfully, we found a new doctor who truly understands me and helps manage my condition better today.
I currently work as a cashier at a retail store in Houston, Texas. Sometimes, you might see me struggling a little with tasks like bagging items, especially fragile ones, due to the shakiness in my hands. If I ask for assistance, I truly appreciate your patience and understanding — even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Living with Tourette’s is a bit like having hiccups. Even when you try to hold it back, your body eventually forces it out. You can’t always control when a tic happens, and trying to suppress it only builds tension until it must be released.
But always remember: I have Tourette Syndrome. Tourette Syndrome does not have me.
💬 To anyone out there living with Tourette Syndrome: You are not alone. There are support groups and communities that can help you feel connected and empowered. Please don’t isolate yourself. Get out into the world — go to restaurants, enjoy public spaces. If someone makes a comment or a face, confidently tell them, “I have Tourette’s. This is part of who I am, and I cannot help it.”
According to the Tourette Association of America: Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a condition of the nervous system that causes people to have “tics” — sudden, repetitive movements, twitches, or sounds that they cannot easily control. Just like hiccups, tics may be temporarily suppressed but must eventually happen.
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