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Diagnosed at 16: Sree’s Journey from Tourette’s Diagnosis to Advocacy
Manage episode 478413698 series 3524016
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What happens when you receive a life-changing diagnosis at 16—and decide to turn it into your superpower? In this episode, I’m joined by the incredibly driven and insightful Sree Lakkamraju. She’s a high school senior, NJCTS Youth Council member, TAA Youth Ambassador, and soon-to-be NYU student. But beyond the titles, Sree is someone who’s turned self-awareness and advocacy into action, and her journey is nothing short of inspiring.
We dive into her late diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome, how she navigated disclosures at school and with friends, and the powerful moment when she realized this wasn’t something to hide—it was something to own. From her experiences fencing, speaking publicly, and interning at Mass General Hospital, Sree has found a voice that’s helping educate, empower, and encourage others.
Episode Highlights:
[3:45] Biking, blinking, and awkward questions: how she explained her tics pre-diagnosis.
[6:33] The moment of clarity: getting the official diagnosis and what it meant to her.
[8:24] Disclosure struggles and the classroom experience that left a lasting mark.
[10:03] Discovering NJCTS and TAA—and realizing advocacy could be a superpower.
[12:19] How Tourette’s helped shape her confidence and public speaking skills.
[14:15] The speech that changed everything and what it means to find your message.
[16:52] Life outside of advocacy: fencing, leadership roles, and staying active.
[19:55] Why fencing became complicated—and how she plans to get back to it in college.
[21:14] Cold emails and big dreams: interning at Mass General Hospital.
[24:54] Insights from OCD/Tourette research and learning the ropes of a real lab.
[25:49] Looking ahead to NYU and life in NYC as a new chapter begins.
[28:26] Disclosure done right: different reactions from two very different school settings.
[31:33] Humor, boundaries, and knowing when to step into advocate mode.
[34:19] What it was like meeting 60+ other youth with TS at a TAA conference.
[37:19] Sree’s advice for those newly diagnosed—and for those supporting someone with TS.
[40:10] A final word on empathy, advocacy, and the value of finding your fire.
Links & Resources:
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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