Story
Hi, and thank you for taking the time to read this.
My name is Ben. I’m in my early 30s and live in Belfast with my wife, Noemí, and our three young children.
I’ve lived with Tourette’s Syndrome (TS) since I was seven, though at the time the term wasn’t used in my case. A lot of research and understanding has taken place since the turn of the millennium, and it wasn’t until my early 20s that a neurologist diagnosed me with the condition. Like many people, I used to associate TS with involuntary swearing—a symptom called coprolalia, often sensationalised in the media. In reality, this only affects around 1 in 10 people with the condition. For many, TS presents as repeated movements and sounds, known as tics, which can be disruptive, exhausting and, in some cases, debilitating.
Tourette’s is still widely misunderstood, but awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have. There’s no cure, but support, understanding, and education can make a huge difference.
Recently, my son, Marco, has started to show signs of tics. It’s too early for a formal diagnosis, but the situation feels familiar. My wife and I are committed to doing everything we can to support him—and to support and learn from other families in similar situations.
That’s why I’m raising funds and awareness for Tourette’s Support Northern Ireland (TSNI). From Friday 3rd to Saturday 4th October 2025, I’ll be taking on “A Walk in the Park”—an ironically named ultramarathon, created by myself, where I’ll walk as many laps as I can around Victoria Park, Belfast, in 24 hours, from noon ‘til noon.
Every donation—big or small—will help TSNI continue its work supporting families and individuals affected by TS. The organisation runs support meetings, training sessions, awareness campaigns, and a variety of activities for children with TS, their families, and friends.
If you’re not in a position to donate, I’d still love your support on the day—whether that’s cheering me on, offering encouragement, joining my “race crew”, or even walking with me for a few (or many) laps. If you'd like to help in any way, please get in touch with me.
Thank you for your support.
A Walk in the Park
Friday 3rd October 12:00 - Saturday 4th October 12:00
Victoria Park, 4 Kyle Street, Belfast, BT4 1LS
Entrance and parking also available at Sam Thompson Bridge on Airport Road, BT3 9EF
Event logo designed and created by Lidia Álvarez Carabaña with use of Tourette's Support NI charity logo
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