DGS Student Named Tourette Syndrome Association Illinois Youth Ambassador

A Downers Grove South student will represent Illinois as the 2012 Tourette Syndrome Association Illinois Youth Ambassador. 

Patrick Resh, 16, is in cross country and track at South. He has also been involved with Boy Scouts since he was 11. 

TSA (Tourette Syndrome Association) ambassadors are chosen among applications from 13- to 17-year-olds. 

The TSA National Youth Ambassador Program prepares teens with Tourette Syndrome and others the skills they need to speak about TS before their peers with the goal of increased understanding and tolerance, according to the TSA website. 

Resh wrote this for a TSA newsletter: 

"I first heard about TSA and Youth Ambassadors when a friend, Isabella, was selected as the New York Youth Ambassador.  Ironically, in seventh grade, my tics became apparent and I was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome. Isabella connected our family with the Illinois Youth Ambassador whom she met at the Youth Leadership conference.  I am grateful there are resources like the TSA, Youth Ambassador Speakers, educators and other disability advocates. I have used many of these resources to help me cope with my disorder. 

I know first-hand what Tourette syndrome is, the reactions people have when they encounter someone with Tourette syndrome, and the realities of living with TS. As Youth Ambassador I want to raise awareness and hopefully make an impact on legislation so those with the disorder can get the help they need in schools and in the community. I also want to encourage families who might have children who are newly diagnosed.

As a Youth Ambassador, I will address many audiences and have the opportunity to tell about my experiences. I will advocate for those who have TS by explaining to as many people as I can, what it is like to be a youth with Tourette syndrome. I look forward to this new challenge!"