Just champion! I Swear star and Tourette's campaigner recognised for making 'significant and lasting difference... to the lives of others'
Last updated 9th May 2026
A Tourette's campaigner who inspired a hit movie about his struggles growing up in the Scottish Borders is being recognised for his work supporting others with the condition.
John Davidson MBE - an Executive Producer on biographical drama I Swear - was last night (Friday) crowned Community Champion, along with long-time supporter Dottie Achenbach, by the Rotary Club in his hometown of Galashiels.
"It was emotional," he told Greatest Hits Radio, after picking up the award during a ceremony at Gala Rugby Club.
"It means a huge amount to me, especially in my hometown. I'm born and bred in Galashiels and I've really struggled growing up in Gala.
"But now, I know it's taken 40 years... I've got the local support and understanding that I've always kind of craved - which is fantastic!"
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John is actively involved with Tourette Scotland, which provides support, advice, and local groups for people living with Tourette's in Scotland.
The health and wellness award recognises the caretaker's outstanding contribution to supporting others, and goes on to thank him for continuing to make a "significant and lasting difference... to the lives of others".
The 54-year-old's citation reads: "His dedication, unwavering commitment and compassionate approach have earned him the deep respect and appreciation of all who have had the privilege of working with him or benefitted from his support."
And it adds: "The Rotary Club of Galashiels and District is honoured to recognise him as a Community Champion."
According to the NHS, Tourette syndrome is a condition that causes you to make sudden, repetitive sounds or movements, also known as tics. There is no cure, but treatment can help manage them.
John told us: "It's been an absolute pleasure receiving this award, especially alongside Dottie - my long-suffering kind of step-mum. She's absolutely amazing, and obviously, what I've done throughout life, I wouldn't have done without Dottie."
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I Swear quickly became the most watched film at John's hometown cinema in Galashiels since Merlin Cinemas took over last year, with the audience in Screen One giving it a standing ovation on its opening night.
It has since gone on to win three BAFTAs and, last month, was released in the United States.
John said: "People are accepting it and really enjoying watching the film.
"Since it's been released in America, after the backlash from the BAFTAs, I've been getting some lovely messages from some black male and female Americans, who didn't at the time understand but now have watched the film - and that was the whole point of it."
And he added: "I'm so pleased that people are starting to sit down and listen and understand and embrace people with Tourette's."
For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our home page - https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/