Advocacy in Action: Hallie’s Story of Growth with Tourette Syndrome

In this episode, I sit down with Hallie Hoffman—a longtime NJCTS volunteer, youth advocate, and all-around powerhouse—to dive into her personal journey with Tourette Syndrome. Hallie shares her early experiences with tics, her decision to seek a diagnosis at 13, and how that moment catapulted her into advocacy and leadership. With honesty and warmth, she reflects on how self-awareness, support systems, and community resources shaped her path to resilience and self-acceptance.

We touch on everything from Hallie’s dietary discoveries to her thoughts on co-occurring conditions, mindfulness, and accommodations. Plus, she offers valuable insights for anyone navigating life with TS—whether you’re newly diagnosed, a parent, or an adult figuring it out as you go. Hallie's story is a testament to the power of owning your narrative and finding strength in community.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] Help NJTS advocate for funding in New Jersey!

[1:47] Kicking off with Hallie's TS journey and how early signs led to a self-initiated diagnosis.

[5:33] Why getting that label was empowering—and how it sparked Hallie’s drive to become a youth advocate.

[10:33] Finding belonging and mentorship through NJCTS and the Tim Howard Leadership Academy.

[14:07] Life now: how Hallie’s tics have evolved and why disclosure is a personal choice.

[17:47] Hallie’s creative coping strategies—from mindfulness to making tics less disruptive.

[22:30] Navigating co-occurring OCD and anxiety, and how awareness has helped her cope.

[24:07] The impact of diet: what helped Hallie and why everyone’s experience with food is unique.

[28:03] Reframing diagnosis: from stigma to tool for empowerment and accessing resources.

[31:32] Why resources like NJCTS’s provider list are game-changers for the TS community.

[36:18] That unmatched feeling of being surrounded by others who just "get it".

[43:21] Hallie’s goals for the future and how she continues to channel her experiences to support others.

Links & Resources:

NJCTS Advocacy Page: https://njcts.org/help-restore-our-funding/

Remember, each story shared on this podcast brings light and understanding to the diverse experiences within the Tourette's community. Your journey is your own, and it's filled with potential and promise. If this episode resonated with you, I encourage you to like, share, and leave a review to help us connect with more listeners.

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