September 9 is FASD Awareness Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), supporting prevention, and strengthening supports for people with FASD and their families.

FASD is a lifelong disability that can affect the brain and body of someone who was exposed to alcohol before birth. Every person with FASD is unique, with their own strengths, challenges and personality. With the right supports, people with FASD can thrive.

Join our Wear Red Rally

FASD Awareness Day is also part of the global Red Shoes Rock campaign. Started as a grassroots initiative, Red Shoes Rock has grown around the world, encouraging people to wear red shoes and share photos using #RedShoesRock to help raise awareness about FASD.

This year, we’re putting our own spin on the idea with our Wear Red Rally!

We’re inviting students across the region to wear red on Wednesday, September 9 and send us a photo for a chance to win a pizza party for their class. The Wear Red Rally is open to children and youth in elementary and high school across Northwestern Ontario.

Ready to join? Send your photo to [email protected] to be entered.

Language matters

Raising awareness is about more than learning the facts. It’s also about how we talk about FASD and alcohol use during pregnancy. Drinking during pregnancy can be a complex issue, and language that places blame or judgment can add to the stigma faced by people and families affected by FASD. We can all help by choosing respectful, person-centred language and recognizing the strengths and individuality of every person with FASD.

One small change we’re making is moving away from the term “suspected FASD” and using “possible FASD” instead. The word “suspected” can carry negative or judgmental connotations, while “possible” is more respectful and neutral.

FASD facts

• FASD stands for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. It is a lifelong disability that can affect the brain and body following prenatal alcohol exposure.
• FASD is more common than many people realize. Current studies suggest that up to 4% of people in Canada have FASD, which is approximately 1.45 million people.
• Everyone with FASD is different. People with FASD have their own strengths and challenges and may need different supports to succeed in daily life.
• The words we use matter. Choosing respectful language can help reduce stigma and create greater understanding for people and families affected by FASD.

This FASD Awareness Day, wear red, learn something new and help us spread the word.