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Giving back (even more)

Speaking of grateful, just last month, students from the Class of 2016 coordinated a farewell celebration for Dr. Doran, and raised money to donate to the Tourette Syndrome Foundation of Canada in his name. Students have also created a website in tribute to their beloved professor. At time of publication, this website is still accepting donations for the Tourette Syndrome Foundation.

As the Foundation’s former director, Dr. Doran remains involved in raising awareness about Tourette’s Syndrome. He has informed healthcare providers and advocated for families. His work has even been recognized by the Order of Canada. “I help put it out there,” describes Dr. Doran, forever humble. “I explain what Tourette’s is and how to manage it, and for the kids and their parents, I let them know that it’s not the end of the world, that life isn’t going to be miserable forever.”

Indeed, if there is one message that Dr. Doran would like to leave behind, it’s to re-emphasize the fact that the symptoms and behaviors of Tourette Syndrome patients are not volitional, and for people to avoid discriminating. “I was teased a lot by the other kids. Especially because I had weird behaviors. But people tease more out of ignorance than anything. If you can provide a little bit of an explanation, that Tourette’s is just another medical disorder, no different than diabetes or broken bones, people will understand.”

“People aren’t judgmental if someone has a broken leg, but people do very much judge others whose behaviors are outside the norm. But these are not volitional. So don’t be so judgmental as to push us away, call us various names, or dismiss us.”