Jamie-Grace Harper is full of spunk. When she was 11 years old, she was disagnosed with Tourette syndrome and was terrified by the uncontrollable sounds and movements that made it difficult for her to do simple tasks like walking and school work brought on by the illness.
When you were first diagnosed with Tourette syndrome what were you thinking?
I was at an age in my life where all most girls want is to feel accepted and normal, but instead I felt secluded and different. For the next few years, I continued to feel that way. I didn’t feel good about myself and I didn’t feel like I had anything to offer the world. It was a frustrating time for me, but I never completely gave up.
How have your parents helped you deal with challenges such as this?
My parents, as well as my older sister, Morgan, have been incredible through this entire process. While the pain I was experiencing was hard on all of us, they were all so strong. When I was about 12, my mom cut her hair short when the medicines I was taking caused me to lose some of my own hair. I remember my dad sitting in my room with me when the medicines wouldn’t let me sleep. I also remember my mom painting our hallway light blue to brighten up my days, and my sister singing my favorite songs to me while playing her guitar.
I encourage anyone with a child or sibling going through a rough time — whether medical or something else — to show them how much they mean to you because that will mean the world to them. Without the love, sacrifices and patience from my family, I don’t know what I would do.
Has it prevented you from being involved in extra-curricular activities like sports and music?
When I was about 14 years old, I was a drummer, my sister was a guitarist and we were both singing 24/7. I later learned to play guitar and began to write songs that I hoped could inspire others to never give up no matter what they were going through. I also decided I would like to motivate my peers not only through music but through speaking as well. A door opened up for speaking when I was contacted by The Revolve Tour after they heard about me on YouTube. The tour is an awesome, truly inspiring weekend event exclusively for teen girls that lets them know they’re not alone in this life, and that they’re loved just the way they are. It’s coming to Atlanta Jan. 28-29. The girls are going to be treated to incredible live music, speakers (including me), mini dramas and more.
The Revolve Tour, an electrifying two-day weekend event for teen girls, will pack The Arena at Gwinnett Center on Jan. 28-29, 2011, with their newest presentation, “Dream On.” Visit www.RevolveTour.com or call 877-9-REVOLVE (877-973-8658). –yvette caslin