How brain surgery let me "turn off" my Tourette's | Jason Cohen | TEDxNHS
Jason first displayed symptoms of Tourette's syndrome in early childhood but was not formally diagnosed until he was a teenager. As a young adult Jason had a glimpse of what life without Tourette's might be like when, during his first driving lesson, the multiple manual and cognitive tasks of driving seemed to suppress his ticks entirely. At 23 Jason put himself forward for Deep Brain Stimulation, the groundbreaking medical technology that would transform his life.Jason Cohen, a pioneer in healthcare technology, has been transforming the NHS for over a decade. Diagnosed with Tourette’s Syndrome at a young age, Jason became one of the first in the UK to undergo Deep Brain Stimulation treatment. His personal journey fuels his passion for improving healthcare systems and advocating for those with neurological conditions.This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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- 17:07Compassion | Phill Edmunson | TEDxUoNIn his thought-provoking TEDx Talk, Phill Edmundson shines a light on the quiet force that holds our society together: compassion.In a world often defined by competition and individualism, Phill invites us to pause and look deeper. Beneath the surface of everyday life lies an invisible safety net woven from kindness, empathy and human connection. This is the fabric that catches those at risk of falling through the cracks. Drawing on years of experience working with people in vulnerable circumstances, Phill reveals how acts of compassion can have a profound and lasting impact on our world.At the heart of his talk are three compelling stories that bring the power of compassion vividly to life. He shares real moments of connection and transformation, showing how compassion is not just about helping others, it is about seeing others fully. Phill also reflects on the timeless story of the Good Samaritan, asking a question that challenges us all: Who will we choose to be a neighbour to? Will we walk past those in need, or will we cross the road and act?This talk is a powerful reminder that compassion is not a passive feeling, but a courageous choice. Through moving storytelling, quiet conviction and unwavering hope, Phill challenges us to build a world where no one is left behind. Because the most powerful safety net we can create in society is each other.Phill inspires us to see compassion not as a weakness, but as one of the greatest strengths we have. A strength that can heal wounds, build bridges and transform lives, including our own. Phill Edmundson is an Empowerment Worker at Hope into Action, a charity dedicated to helping churches provide housing for the homeless. With over twenty-five years of experience spanning roles as a youth worker, church minister and now at Hope into Action, Phill has dedicated his career to making a tangible difference in people’s lives.The thread that connects all of Phill’s work is empowering individuals to discover their strengths and embrace change. Phill is passionate about bringing those on the edges of society into community with others around them.When he’s not working Phill can be found enjoying the three Rs: Records, Reading & Running.Phill's TEDx talk aims to see that our compassion is the invisible safety net that stops people falling through the gap. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
- 12:17Redefining Intimacy in the Age of Social Media | Dr. Chitra Singh | TEDxSVCIn a world where what we see online often shapes how we feel, Dr. Chitra encourages us to look beyond the distorted images of love and intimacy that social media and pornography feed us. She talks about how social media sets unrealistic standards that leave many feeling not good enough, and how pornography gives a false picture of sex—one that lacks real emotion and honest connection.Dr. Chitra highlights the need for real, open conversations about sex and relationships. She believes schools and colleges should teach age-appropriate sex education, and that parents should feel comfortable talking with their kids about consent, queer identities, and the realities of teenage pregnancy. She invites us all to pause and reflect before making decisions about our bodies and relationships.Her message is simple but powerful: love isn’t about dramatic gestures or what we see online. It’s about being authentic, respectful, and understanding. By breaking down taboos and encouraging honest talks, she urges us to build a healthier, more genuine connections in a world where misinformation is everywhere. A dedicated MBBS doctor and a passionate advocate for women’s health, Dr. Chitra Singh uses social media to simplify and normalize conversations about periods, girl talk and sexual health in layman’s terms. With her mission to break taboos and spread awareness, she empowers countless individuals with knowledge that should never be whispered but openly discussed. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
