Encouragement Through Adversity

This is going to be a different “Weather Watch” than normal. As many of you may have heard, I am taking some time off from THV11 to focus on my health. In 2007, I shared with the state of Arkansas my story of living with Tourette Syndrome, and since then have had the opportunity to participate on a national and international stage.  

I shared my story through the Tourette’s Podcast, hosted by Ben Brown (Season 2, Episode 4 – Before That Red Light Comes On), an article in Tourette Association of America and an interview with Lead National Correspondent for CBS This Morning, David Begnaud, who also has Tourette Syndrome. David has reached out to me since my leave was announced and I am hopeful to again have the chance to encourage others to pursue their dreams despite any physical or mental limitations.

I am so thankful God gave me courage to come forward in 2007, and the platform to help students and adults cope with not only TS, but also address bullying associated with all kinds of disabilities—or as I say, “this ability.” Through this step and the support of my wife, Carolyn, and of my friend and then co-worker David Craft, I have encouraged thousands of young people all over Arkansas to use their situation or condition to make a difference in the lives of others. What a wonderful opportunity I’ve been given to encourage, support and love others who may have been struggling, and to share my faith as my source of hope and strength.  

Over the last few years, it has become increasingly difficult to manage the effects of TS on my body. Because of the frequency and extreme force of each neck, arm, or leg tic, my spine has paid the price. I am currently in physical therapy and have other procedures scheduled that will prayerfully restore my flexibility and relieve pain. 

For those who don’t exactly know what Tourette Syndrome is, or who have the idea that it always involves shouting obscenities, it is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by both motor tics (movement) and vocal tics. Mine include sniffing, hacking and even a squeak noise when I am excited. Carolyn likes this one; she calls it my “happy tic.”

In any case, tics are frustrating because they are completely involuntary (uncontrollable) and exhausting. There is no definitive cause for Tourette Syndrome, although a combination of inherited and environmental factors likely play a role. And unfortunately, there is no cure. 

I want to mention that I have a mild case of Tourette Syndrome. The daily struggles and long-term effects can be much more difficult for those with more severe cases who may find it impossible to eat, get dressed or perform other essential daily functions without assistance. 

As you meet people throughout the course of your day, be kind, be considerate, be compassionate. This quote sums it up for me: “Be Kind. For everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about,” which I first read on stevepake.com. 

As we all know, Arkansas has some extreme weather that requires meteorologists to be on top of their game. That’s my goal. I want to come back renewed, refreshed and ready to keep you informed and safe through everything our crazy climate has to dish out. In the meantime, take care of yourself just as I am doing, so you can take care of those you love.