Assemblywoman Holly Schepisi Presents Tourette Syndrome Youth Advocate Award to New Jersey Teen

Mahwah, NJ, April 30, 2013 --(PR.com)-- New Jersey State Assemblywoman Holly Schepisi (R-39) presented the New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome & Associated Disorders’ (NJCTS) first annual Youth Advocate Award to Emily Fleischman at the NJ Walks For TS at Ramapo College on April 14. Fleischman, a senior at River Dell High School, won the award after writing a children’s book – “Emily’s Tic” – about her experiences with Tourette Syndrome and speaking to children at schools across North Jersey about the neurological disorder, among other fine accomplishments.

“Emily is an inspiration to all of us on how to help yourself and others while overcoming life’s challenges. I was honored to recognize her work as an author and youth ambassador to raise awareness and acceptance of Tourette Syndrome,” said Assemblywoman Schepisi, a part of the NJ Walks For TS at Ramapo College Honorary Committee. “Helping NJCTS raise money for Tourette research and the wonderful services the Center provides allowed me the opportunity to meet many families affected by Tourette who benefit from their programs. It was a truly uplifting time.”

Prior to the start of the walk, Assemblywoman Schepisi joined NJCTS Executive Director Faith W. Rice in presenting the award to Fleischman, 18, who also volunteered in setting up the event and walked the course with her mother, Florence.

“I want to thank NJCTS for honoring me with this very prestigious award. I am flattered and thrilled beyond words,” Fleischman said in her acceptance speech at the event. “The support for TS is amazing and appreciated."

Joining Assemblywoman Schepisi on the Honorary Committee were United States Congressmen Albio Sires (D-NJ8), Leonard Lance (R-NJ7), Rush Holt (D-NJ12) and Scott Garrett (R-NJ5), as well as New Jersey State Senator Gerald Cardinale (R-39).

“We are honored that Assemblywoman Schepisi attended NJ Walks For TS at Ramapo College and showed tremendous support for the Tourette Syndrome community,” Rice said. “The Assemblywoman and the other distinguished members of our Honorary Committee play a big role in what Tourette awareness and advocacy are all about, and we sincerely thank them for their participation.”

For more information about NJCTS and the NJ Walks For TS program, please visit www.njcts.org. The next NJ Walks For TS event is scheduled for November 23 in Mendham.