Central Alberta FASD Network raises awareness on International FASD Day

“We welcomed all community members, whether they have a person in their life with FASD or not, just to learn more about it, prevention, education, and to just enjoy the day,” she said.

“Unfortunately, FASD [is still prevalent in Alberta]. Approximately four per cent of all Albertans will be affected by FASD. That’s probably an underestimate because it’s underdiagnosed. There’s a lot of stigma surrounding it, so people don’t want to talk about it, or they’ll call it something else.”

She said since they started hosting the event, progress has been made and they’re reaching more people. Last year they had over 350 people attend compared to half the number of people the year before that.

“We’ve really increased the awareness over the last couple of years and reduced the stigma so people feel more comfortable coming to talk to us,” she said.

Nanson-Ashton said that as long as alcohol is being served, there will always be FASD because 65 per cent of pregnancies are unplanned. She said many mothers could drink without even knowing that they’re pregnant.

“A lot of women are in situations where alcohol is their only way to cope, and they don’t have the supports they need to stop drinking, so really there’s no blame attached to it for biological moms,” she added.

The Central Alberta FASD Network offers free programs and services where they support moms, caregivers, and individuals impacted by FASD.

They serve the whole region through their main office located in Red Deer. They also provide medical assessment diagnosis, outreach, community support, prevention education, and they’re also in local schools throughout the year assisting youth.

“Moms should feel confident and comfortable to access our services. It’s a nonjudgmental atmosphere, and we just want to help,” she added.

On Wednesday, an FASD awareness walk was held on the Samson Cree Nation, hosted by Nipisihkopahk Integrated Family Services and Neyaskweyahk Health & Wellness FASD prevention. It can be seen below:

In addition, Alberta Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services Nathan Neudorf issued a statement on FASD Day.

Per the Government of Alberta:

“Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong disability affecting individuals who were exposed to alcohol in the womb. FASD has a profound impact on the lives of individuals, families, caregivers and communities, yet prenatal alcohol exposure is preventable. About four per cent of Canadians are living with FASD, including approximately 200,000 Albertans.

“Since 1999, International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day has been recognized on the ninth day of the ninth month, representing the nine months of pregnancy.

“Supporting healthy pregnancies is a shared responsibility. Partners, families, friends and communities all have a role to play. There is no safe time, type or amount of alcohol to consume during pregnancy. Through open conversations, education and greater awareness, we can help prevent FASD while building communities that better understand and support people living with it.

“Alberta is a leader in the prevention, diagnosis and support of FASD, both in Canada and internationally. Central to this work are Alberta’s 12 FASD Service Networks, which help raise awareness, improve prevention and diagnosis, and connect Albertans with the supports they need.

“I want to thank the dedicated organizations, professionals, families and individuals who work every day to support Albertans with FASD. Your work help builds communities where people with FASD are understood, their strength are talents are recognized, and they have the opportunity to thrive.

“On International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day, I encourage all Albertans to learn more about FASD, help raise awareness and recognize the valuable contributions people with FASD make in communities across our province.”

by Ian Gustafson

Central Alberta FASD Network raises awareness on International FASD Day

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