Brad Cohen's Front of the Class: How Tourette Syndrome Made Me The Teacher I Never Had

Sponsored by the Tourette Syndrome Association of Illinois/Indiana I gave 3 presentations. First, was the Chicago Tourette Winter Mini Camp www.tourettecamp.com

Here I spoke to 25 kids and their parents. All of the kids had TS and had wanted to hear my story. I shared my experiences and gave them advice as to how to live their life and be successful. Once again they asked great questions. The highlight was when one child asked if he could ask Nancy a question. He went on to ask, "Did you think Brad was a freak when you first met him?" The downside to the entire event was the weather. It was one of the coldest days I could remember with the temperature being -6 degrees, that is correct, NEGATIVE SIX DEGREES Saturday morning. The room I spoke in was so cold I actually had to wear my coat and gloves for part of the event.

Then we headed to Barnes and Noble at Old Orchard in Skokie, IL. The turnout for the book signing was about 100 people. It was great to meet new people as well as seeing old friends. Thanks for the support! I spoke for about 20 minutes and then I did a lot of signing. This Barnes and Noble was one of the best locations I have worked with so far.

Last was a presentation to the Tourette Syndrome Association of Illinois in Elmhurst, IL. We had a nice turnout of about 30 people. I have really enjoyed getting to meet other people with TS and people who are looking to help make a difference in the life of someone with TS. A big thank you to Michel Lehman who was a great host for the two day event. I'm glad she is supporting the Tourette community, she's a good person to have in our corner!
Cheers

On Friday, February 17th I had a chance to speak for the Education Department at Purdue University. With over 100 people in attendance I gave a presentation on "Overcoming Challenges and Winning the Game of Life." I spoke to educators, parents, children, and people with TS showing them that despite how tough life may get, they can still overcome their disability.

I had one of the best Question and Answer sessions where the people were honest and the kids wanted to be heard.

Thanks to Dr. Hynd and the Purdue faculty for all the support. It was also an honor to meet Sheila Klinker, a State of Indiana House of Representative!

After a quick bite to eat at the John Purdue Restaurant, I headed to Chicago for my next event(That would be 4 presentations in 24 hours!)
Cheers

My visit to Florida was sponsored by the Tourette Syndrome Association of Florida and their Silent Auction. I was their Keynote Speaker and tried to personalize what Tourette Syndrome is, while at the same time show the people that those with TS can overcome their disability and be successful in the game of life.
The people of Florida were great and the event was amazing. Thanks for giving me a chance to be a part of a great event!
Cheers