Oakton Mom Launches Fundraiser for Teen Son Suffering from Tourette's Syndrome

Until he turned 14, Daniel Derrico of Oakton was a happy, healthy teen. 

Three years ago, he was diagnosed with a complex and debilitating form of OCD and Tourette's syndrome, which has made it necessary for him to be hospitalized and in residential treatment in Wisconsin.

Tourette's syndrome is a neurological condition that causes people to make sounds and movements that they don’t want to make and cannot control, called tics. According to the National Tourette's Syndrome Association, not all people with Tourette's syndrome have associated behaviors or disorders in addition to tics, however, some exhibit behaviors including obsessions, compulsions and ritualistic behaviors, Attention Deficit Disorder with or without hyperactivity, and learning disabilities. Tourette's Syndrome Awareness month is May 15 through June 15.

Daniel's mom, Karen Derrico, has launched a website to raise funds for his treatment as well as raise awareness of Tourette's Syndrome and OCD.

"I never imagined things would get to the point of having to launch a fundraiser to help with Daniel's treatment, but the financial burden has been tremendous and will likely continue to be for the foreseeable future," Karen Derrico wrote on the website.

Karen has set a goal of raising $25,000, which will help pay for doctors, specialists, diagnostics and treatments. As of May 22, the Derrico's insurance company will discontinue coverage for Daniel at the hospital. 

Karen says the money raised so far will only pay for less than a week at the hospital, and Daniel's treatment team says he needs to stay at least two more months. She says she will appeal the insurance decision, but it's likely to be a lengthy and complex process with no guarantee of a positive outcome."

For more information and to donate, visit http://www.gofundme.com/HelpforDaniel.