JAMIE'S STORY - STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART

I just got Jamie’s EP (Hold Me) and I’m listening to a song titled ‘Holding on’ off it. I first saw Jamie Grace Harper on iShine TV via TBN some months back and a couple of weeks back I heard she was signed to Gotee records (TobyMac, Out Of Eden, FamilyForce5). And really her music is all fun, cool, real and God centered. The joy can be felt, there’s no fronting on this one. As the music plays on something beyond it brings a deep smile to my face - Jamie has a story to tell and without putting words in her mouth I’ll let her tell it.

My life with Tourette syndrome by Jamie-Grace, 15

 

Well growing up I was like a regular kid. I had friends over, went to their houses, watched movies, rode my bike, you know, "kid stuff". But it sort of changed when I was around eight. I started to blink a lot, like blinking with force, and my arms and legs kept bending rapidly. I was pretty scared considering I couldn't help the movements and so they were just "happening" and when I didn't make these movements, I felt horrible and made myself make them if my body didn't make the movements first.

I saw different doctors, and had different tests. Over this time I started to make a squealing noise and started to repeat almost anything I heard. I also had little things I had to do and things I had to touch and say.

When I was 11-years-old I was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome (TS) and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). TS is a disorder that causes "tics". Tics are sounds and movements that cannot be controlled. OCD is something a lot of people with TS have. It’s where you become obsessed over saying, touching, and doing "random" things.

Coping with OCD

My OCD got harder to control in public, and my TS grew embarrassing as I got more tics. I was then put on different medicines, because that was the only way to see what would work. Some weren't too bad and some weren’t all that great.

Now I also have been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Echolalia (I repeat most things I hear.) It's hard, very, but I try not to let it get the best of me. When I have my good days, I am sure to make the best of it. Even my "bad" days! I just have to not let TS wear me down.

It's like what Tim Howard [Premier League footballer who has TS] said, "Tourette Syndrome is a speed bump, not a stop sign”.*

Jamie’s Story is changing me. I’m left without words as I curl up on a couch and type this. A scripture comes to mind . . . no two.

For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith.

Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?

-          1 John 5: 4-5

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or danger, or sword? . . . . . .

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

-          Romans 8: 35 and 37

More than ever, I’m inspired to step out no matter what. For the child of God, nothing has got the power to kill our passion, purpose and God-given dream. This is someone who can hide behind a medical disorder but chooses to step out with the strength of God and bless the world with her God-given talent.

There might be mountains but would we forget that we pocket faith like mustard seeds that can move our mountains into the seas?

We might be weak but would we forget that the Joy of the Lord is strength enough?

There might be dark days when the sun won’t shine but would we forget that the Light of the world lives on our inside?

I don’t want to forget. I want to be strong for those I love and my generation. I want to live every single moment in victory. I don’t think I would be bold enough to face my King if I don’t live and finish strong. He’s given me all I need to live a victorious life (2 Peter 1:3) so what’s my excuse?

I’m enamored by the grace that flows through Jamie Grace Harper’s story. And my heart also goes out to everyone who is in a place out there that seems they’ve been locked in with no keys to get out. If you know Jesus, you know the one who has the keys to any bondage of any sort. He can set you free and set you on the part of victorious living to make an impact in your world.

These things should make us stronger whatever the situation. Be encouraged. Let Jamie’s story inspire you. You can do all things . . . yes, through Christ who strengthens you. No matter the limitations life has dealt you let them be an invitation to rise higher. Till next time it still me your boy,

The King’s Son

U R LUVED 

P.S. - You Can Check out Jamie Grace’s Album Review right here.

Jamie's new EP

And for a free song by Jamie grace click here

* http://www.childrenfirst.nhs.uk/teens/health/mental_health/book1/rs_tour_jg.htm