Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Month is observed every year in September, with FASD Awareness Day falling on September 9th. This day is dedicated to raising awareness of FASD, promoting prevention, and improving diagnosis, understanding, and support for individuals and families affected by the disorder.
About Myles Himmelreich, Service Deliver Advisor at CLBC
“As an individual with FASD and also a Service Delivery Advisor (SDA) for CLBC, I am excited, proud, and honoured to be part of a team bringing more awareness and understanding to our agency as well as those we support,” said Myles.
This year in B.C., many communities will be hosting FASD walks to raise awareness. CLBC will also be hosting FASD educational sessions and sharing an FASD Toolkit with staff to better inform on FASD services.
History of FASD Awareness Month
The roots of FASD awareness trace back to FASD Awareness Day, first recognized on September 9, 1999. The ninth day of the ninth month was chosen to symbolize the nine months of pregnancy
The idea originated from a group of parents and professionals, including Bonnie Buxton and Brian Philcox from Canada, and Teresa Kellerman from the U.S., who advocated for a global day to bring attention to FASD.
The first International FASD Awareness Day included “Bells for Babies”, where people around the world rang bells at 9:09 a.m. on 9/9 to spread the message.
Expansion to Awareness Month
Over time, what began as a single day of recognition expanded into a month-long awareness campaign in many countries. Organizations, governments, and communities recognized the need for ongoing education and support efforts beyond just one day.
FASD Awareness Month was officially adopted in various jurisdictions throughout the 2010s, with increasing recognition across Canada, the U.S., Australia, and other nations.
Why it matters
Awareness efforts early on can lead to early diagnosis, support services, and reducing stigma. FASD Awareness Month helps advocate for improved policies, education, and support systems.
Symbolism
Red Shoes have become a growing symbol of FASD awareness and solidarity especially in Canada. Events often include walks, educational campaigns, community gatherings, and lighting landmarks in red. We encourage you to get involved in FASD events happening in your community this month.
Other FASD resources
The Canada Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Research Network (CanFASD) is a collaborative, interdisciplinary research network, with collaborators, researchers and partners across the nation. It is Canada’s first comprehensive national Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) research network.
FASD Canada is a federally registered charity, run by a board of directors. The organization aims to help support, inform and educate people about the harmful effects of consuming alcohol during pregnancy. Click here to check out their library of FASD resources.
Family Support Institute of BC is a provincial non-profit society dedicated to empowering and supporting families who have a family member with a disability. They are hosting several FASD-related events in September. Click here to learn more.
