Central Alberta FASD Network raises awareness on FASD Day

“Therefore, you think about the fact that Albertans tend to drink alcohol, I think it’s 74 per cent, it’s pretty hard to prevent that.”

Nanson-Ashton explained the event is meant to create a comfortable atmosphere for the public to not only enjoy the event but also ask questions about FASD.

“What I want to educate people is women are not intentionally trying to harm their babies or fetuses. Often times, they don’t know they’re pregnant or they find out and they stop,” she said.

The younger they’re able to diagnose a child she said, the more likely they’re able to get supports in place so they don’t struggle unnecessarily in school. She explained that some kids who go unsupported, sometimes get involved in criminal activity.

The Central Alberta FASD Network serves the whole region through its main office located in Red Deer. They provide services to individuals impacted by FASD as well as their caregivers or guardians. They provide a medical assessment diagnosis, outreach community support, prevention education, and they’re also in local schools throughout the year assisting youth.

Nanson-Ashton said research has shown that a minimum of four per cent of Canadians are affected by FASD. She added, that’s about 174,000 Albertans that are affected across the province.

“We also want to educate women, their partners, and the community that there’s no safe amount of alcohol to drink during pregnancy,” she said.

The Central Alberta FASD Network is funded through grants including some from the provincial government. However, she said they do 65 medical assessments per year but they also always have some children on a waitlist.

“We do always appreciate donations and they go 100 per cent directly to children and youth being diagnosed with FASD.”

by rdnewsNOW staff

Central Alberta FASD Network raises awareness on FASD Day

What's Trending