September 9 marks International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day and communities in Northwestern Ontario are showing their support.
The Northwestern Ontario FASD Diagnostic Clinic, supported by Firefly, wants to continue this important conversation to individuals and caregivers impacted by FASD.
Clinical Manager at Firefly Amanda Brennan says FASD exists throughout Canada, and right here in Northwestern Ontario as they see 45-55 kids each year through the diagnostic clinic.
‘We just want people to remember that FASD does not discriminate, anyone can be susceptible to it if they have prenatal alcohol exposure. Really, there could be people you work with, or go to school with that have FASD so just bringing awareness to that.”
FASD is a lifelong disability that affects the brain and body in 4 percent of Canadians, which is more than Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down’s Syndrome and Spina Bifida combined.
Brennan explains the day was first recognized in 1999 to raise awareness about the conditions that can develop from alcohol use during pregnancy.
“It was chosen so that on the ninth day or the month month of the year, the world will remember that during the nine months of pregnancy, women should try to abstain from alcohol if possible.”
There’s a wide range of conditions in which FASD can present but some of the conditions include deficits in cognition, language, motor skills and attention.
While there is still research to be done about the disorder, Brennan says experts agree that no amount of drinking is considered safe while pregnant.
Brennan says there’s a few activities going on across the region.
“There’s a walk that’s taking place in Kenora from Husky The Muskie to the Farmers Market and back, so people are encouraged to wear their red shoes.”
Red Shoes Rock is part of the campaign, which entourages people to start a conversation and end the stigma of FASD.
Sioux Lookout’s Healthy Generations FASD Family Support Program and other organizations will also be participating by hosting a zoom rock painting party.
You are asked to gather rocks and get ready to paint them red, black and white.
The goal is to paint red shoes on the rocks and then scatter them around town to bring awareness to FASD.
You can join the zoom painting party by emailing yvette.jones@cldsl.ca to register.