Danya International, Inc., Launches Tourette Syndrome Website

SILVER SPRING, MD. (May 15, 2003) – In conjunction with the start of Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month (May 15th-June 15th), Danya International, Inc. (Danya), will launch the Planet Tic Website (www.planettic.com), an interactive site designed as a resource for teachers, parents, and students to learn more about Tourette Syndrome (TS). Danya, a Silver Spring-based health communications firm, created the site with the help of the Tourette Syndrome Association of Greater Washington (TSAGW) and a team of experts in the field.

Planet Tic, the novel Website launching later this week, uses attractive graphics and interactive animation to educate teachers, parents, and students about TS. For teachers, the Website provides a wealth of information on how to communicate with the parents of a child with TS, how to manage behavioral problems in the classroom, and how to teach students to accept a student with TS. Parents will learn tips on how to talk to siblings about TS and how to speak with teachers. Finally, students can learn basic information about TS, how to discuss TS with friends, and how to assist their teachers in creating a more effective learning environment. The Website also includes more interactive games, bulletin boards, and resources on product information.

"The universe has just gotten a bit smaller," said David Zwack, Internet Systems Development Manager at Danya. "The launch of Planet Tic (www.planettic.com) gives us all a little more insight into Tourette Syndrome. It is through information that we can all get along better. The key to eradicating misunderstanding and preconceived notions is through education."

Danya has also created and distributes other products intended to aid those living with or close to a person with TS, including the video You've Got a Friend, which won the Best Audio/Visual Materials Award from the American Public Health Association, Public Health Education and Health Promotion Section in 2002. Other newly released products include The Real World of Tourette Syndrome, a video and guide for teens; El Verdadero Mundo del Síndrome de Tourette, the Spanish version of The Real World of Tourette Syndrome; and Tienes Un Amigo, the Spanish version of You've Got a Friend. All of these videos have accompanying guides.

About Danya International, Inc.

Danya creates, delivers, and evaluates innovative behavior change strategies that empower people of all ages and from all walks of life to live healthier and better educated lives. The company provides breakthrough services in the areas of public health communication, research and evaluation, information technology, education and training, program management support, and health product development. Founded on the guiding principles of integrity, quality, and creativity, Danya helps its public and private-sector clients to develop research-based tools and campaigns that communicate clear, concise, and effective health messages across all media forms. Founded in 1996, Danya is based in Silver Spring, Maryland. To learn more about the company, visit www.danya.com.