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Tenth annual Trek for Tourette in Victoria drives awareness to growing diagnosis

One in 50 Canadian children affected by syndrome, or its cousins OCD and ADHD
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Participants in the 2017 Trek for Tourette pose along their Dallas Road route. This year’s Trek happens Sunday (April 8) at 2 p.m. Photo contributed Participants in the 2017 Trek for Tourette pose along their Dallas Road route; this year’s trek heads along the oceanside path again, kicking off at 2 p.m. on April 9. Photo contributed

One in 50 Canadian children have been diagnosed with Tourette syndrome – or one of its cousins OCD and ADHD – yet the stigma surrounding the unique disorder remains.

For that reason, Victoria is stepping up in the name of awareness with a five-kilometre charity fun walk along Dallas Road this Sunday (April 8), on the 10th anniversary of the Trek for Tourette event. The syndrome is a neurological disorder that produces repetitive, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics.

National trek co-ordinator Janet Rumsey has Tourette’s, as do her four sons, and has overseen the organization of walks across the country, from B.C. to Newfoundland.

“It’s time we as a nation recognize that neurodevelopmental disorders are mainstream and growing rapidly in the frequency of their diagnosis,” she said.

Volunteer-based Tourette Canada relies on the generosity of Canadians to provide services to those living with the disorder, and their families. Founded in 1976, it is the only registered charity that assists individuals affected by Tourette syndrome. Their main goal however, remains creating awareness and understanding through education, advocacy, and research.

Registration for the walk starts at 1 p.m. and the trek heads out from Dallas Road and Cook Street at 2 p.m., heading to Ogden Point and back again. To donate or to get involved visit tourette.ca.

kristyn.anthony

@vicnews.com