September 9th marks International  FASD day, a day to recognize and raise awareness about the dangers of drinking during pregnancy and the plight of individuals and families who struggle with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). This day was chosen so that on the ninth day of the ninth month of the year, the world will remember that during the nine months of pregnancy a woman should abstain from alcohol.

Today, to mark this event, several folks came together for the 2nd annual FASD Walk in the Park organized by Community Action Committee’s Healthy Baby Club and Western Health Primary Care with support by the Bay St. George Coalition to End Violence.

Unfortunately,with darkened skies and threats of rain, the number participating was smaller than last year, but, regardless those who participated in the walk enjoyed the refreshing jaunt and beautiful views of the floral garden at Blanche Brook in Stephenville.  Following the walk, the nine, young to young-at-heart enjoyed a nutritious lunch in the Jerome Delaney Pavillion at the beginning of the park walking away with resources and information to share.

While September 9th marks the day, it is a good time to share and raise awareness every day of the year about FASD.

According to Public Health Agency of Canada, “it is estimated that 1% of Canadians (360,000 people) have FASD, a brain injury that can occur when an unborn baby is exposed to alcohol. It is a lifelong disorder with effects that include physical, mental, behavioural and learning disabilities.” 

Kim Kendell, Youth Outreach Worker with Mental Health & Addictions and Community Education Network supports this event each year, and says the main goal of the Stephenville event, outside offering information and resources, is to “offer a non-judgmental event, where everyone can feel safe and accepted.”

For more information on FASD, you may visit the Healthy Pregnancy Guide or the Government of Canada’s website at Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.

(Source: FAS World, Public Health Agency of Canada)