Local public television station KRCB continues its drive to promote healthier lifestyles with a pair of documentaries on illnesses rarely discussed – Tourette Syndrome and Lyme Disease.

• “Different Is The New Normal: Living A Life with Tourette’s,” July 15, 10:30 p.m.: This documentary film tracks the trials and triumphs of Ariel Small, a 17-year-old living with uncontrollable physical and vocal tics caused by Tourette Syndrome. Narrated by actor Michael J. Fox, Different Is The New Normal reveals an acutely personal first-hand account of Tourette's through Ariel's eyes.

With Ariel's permission, his mother documents their emotional journey to overcome the obstacles of Tourette's in order to raise awareness about the neurobiological disorder, dispel the misperceptions and social stigma associated with it, and help others living with the condition.

Along the way, Ariel meets James Durbin, the American Idol finalist whose own battle with bullying and intolerance inspired the film's title.

• “Under Our Skin: A Health Care Nightmare,” July 17, 9 p.m.: In the 1970s, a mysterious and deadly illness began infecting children in a small town in Connecticut.

Today, it's a global epidemic. A gripping tale of microbes, medicine and money, Under Our Skin: A Health Care Nightmare exposes the hidden story of Lyme disease.

Following the stories of patients fighting for their lives, the film reveals with beauty and terror a natural world out of balance and a human nature all too willing to put profits before patients.       
              
KRCB Public Television broadcasts from studios in Rohnert Park on digital channels 22.1, 22.2 and 22.3 and is seen over-the-air throughout much of the Bay Area.  KRCB is also seen on Channel 22 via Comcast Cable, AT&T U-verse, DISH and DirecTV satellite services across the entire Bay Area.