Assistant principal with Tourette syndrome on mission to help others

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Brad Cohen knew from a young age that he wanted to be a teacher and he overcame adversity to make sure his dream came true. 

Cohen started showing signs that he had special needs the summer before fourth grade and after numerous doctor visits he was diagnosed with a neurological disorder called Tourette Syndrome (TS). It causes him to have ticks that he can't control.  

As he worked to become an educator, Cohen's mother taught him to never allow anyone to steal his dreams, no matter how great the obstacle. So, he realized he needed to be a voice for the voiceless. 

Ten years ago, Cohen wrote a book, "Front of the Class, How Tourette Syndrome Made Me the Teacher I Never Had." However, it didn't end there. 

"I just knew I needed to share my story with others and then after my story, Oprah had me on her show and I was able to educate millions about people about this condition," Cohen said. 

Cohen's life then came to life on the small screen, with Hallmark Hall of Fame creating a tv movie about his journey. 

"This is definitely my purpose in life," Cohen said. "To be that role model for so many people."

Cohen has also started the Brad Cohen Tourette Foundation. Its mission is to help children with Tourette syndrome learn how to exist in the real world with others who don't understand.