Raising Tourette's

Raising Tourette's is a heart-touching reality docuseries that aired on A&E in 2018. It provides an intimate look into the extraordinary lives of five families who are raising children with Tourette's Syndrome—a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, stereotyped, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics. Each episode presents a unique narrative that includes challenges, victories, and everyday life situations these families face, denying the stigma and misconceptions often associated with Tourette's Syndrome.

The series offers much more than just surface-level entertainment; it is an emotional journey entwined with knowledge and understanding. It humanizes the people living with Tourette’s, showing that they are not defined by their condition but are individuals with their aspirations, talents, personalities, and lives. With their stories unraveled, viewers get an unvarnished glimpse of the children's strength, resilience, and efforts to lead a normal life despite their condition.

A signature aspect of Raising Tourette's is its authenticity, as it ditches traditional reenactments for genuine interactions. The show does not shy away from addressing the hard truths of living with a neurological disorder, demonstrating how it interferes with the simplest tasks like speaking, going to school, or just hanging out with friends. There's also an emphasis on the caregiver's perspective, showing their experiences as they navigate various challenges, uncertainties, frustrations, and joys of raising a child with Tourette's.

Challenges these families encounter resonate with the audience, even if they don't personally know someone with Tourette's Syndrome. Moreover, viewers are privy to the triumphs the families generate; from the children accomplishing tasks for the first time without a tic to parents finding new coping strategies. These triumphs promote a positive outlook, showing that living and succeeding with Tourette's is possible.

Raising Tourette's doesn't just enlist sympathy; instead, it fosters empathy. It breaks down the wall hiding a world many people misunderstand or fear due to ignorance. Instead of framing the show in a way that highlights difference, it underscores similarity, pushing forward that these families are just like any other trying to live their best lives. The way they laugh, love, connect, argue, and come together during crisis are emotions and situations all families face.

The kids on the show demonstrate inspiring courage and tenacity, revealing strength that surpasses their age. They are extraordinary, and watching them grow, thrive, and face their challenges head-on is an experience that tugs at the heartstrings. While their efforts towards fitting into society are monumental, the show does not disregard society's role to understand differences and accommodate those who live with conditions like Tourette's. Their resilience, and the continuous learning and adapting from the people around them, breach the surface and convey the true message of the program.

Another element that marks the brilliance of Raising Tourette's is how it is an informative platform. The series spotlights this disorder that is complex and multifaceted, aiming to diminish stereotypes and bias associated with Tourette's. It manages to balance conveying the medical aspect of the disorder while maintaining human connections and relations as integral components of every episode.

Finally, Raising Tourette's emphasizes the incredible bond present in each family – bonds that grow stronger in the face of adversity. It shifts the focus from the disorder to the triumphs of the human spirit, the power of determination, and the strength of familial love and support. The children, even though they take center stage, are adequately backed up by siblings and parents who demonstrate that they wouldn't have things any other way. They recognize that their children are not their disorder.

In essence, Raising Tourette's is not just about Tourette’s Syndrome—it's about the power of resilience, acceptance, understanding, love, and predominantly, about raising awareness. It's a powerful reminder that everyone with a condition, disability, or difference has a story to tell, and if given a platform, these stories can educate, inspire, and change attitudes; creating a more accepting and inclusive society. The series is an emotional rollercoaster that leaves viewers with lasting impressions and increased knowledge, showing that the difference can be strength, and that love, understanding, support, and acceptance can conquer even the toughest of hurdles. This series has depth, purpose, and an important message, making it a must-watch.