Help Aubrey's Tourette’s Healing Journey!

Aubrey Burgoyne is a beautiful, intelligent young women who lives in Brandon Manitoba. You may have seen her walking with her service dog Franklin and Leroy a new “puppy-in-training”; you may have seen Aubrey doing casual work at Grasslands Canine Development Center; or, you may have seen her thrown to the ground by uncontrolled, sporadic, flailing movements of her neck, legs, and arms. Aubrey has Tourette’s Syndrome.

First diagnose when she was eight, Aubrey’s condition puzzled doctor’s because Aubrey did not experience relief from the drugs and treatments usually used to treat this condition. Unfortunately, as Aubrey approached adulthood, her symptoms became increasingly severe, disruptive, and threatening to her health and personal safety. Aubrey is a talented dog trainer; however, the unpredictability of her condition, has left her unable to be a reliable employee. Aubrey experiences severe full-body tics that present like seizures, cause injuries to her body and cause disruption and alarm to those around her. Because of this, Aubrey struggles to attend social gatherings such as church, movies, concerts, sports events. She cannot shop by herself, ride a bike, or drive a car. While Aubrey stays in good spirits and tries to make the best of things, she longs for a normal life.

There may be hope. Last winter, Dr. Udow, at the movement disorder clinic in Winnipeg, referred Aubrey to specialist at Toronto Western Hospital. This spring, Aubrey went to Toronto to see Doctor Fasano. DBS or deep brain stimulation has been recommended as the best treatment for Aubrey and she is going to Toronto to receive this surgery in January. The surgery will be paid for by Manitoba Health; however, Aubrey is trying to raise $5000 to pay for flights, a four day recovery period in Toronto and, if needed, a return to Toronto for a check-up and evaluation. She will be posting her Toronto experience on Face Book.

Aubrey is asking for your help. Any contribution will be appreciated. Help Aubrey get the treatment that will change her life. With your contribution you can help Aubrey work, drive, engage in social activities, and enjoy many things that most people take for granted. With your contribution, you can help Aubrey have a chance to lead a contributing and fulfilling life. In advance, Aubrey thanks you.