A message from Ross Chilton, CLBC CEO
Today, September 9, is International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day. Recognized around the world since 1999, this day raises awareness and understanding of FASD to improve prevention, as well as diagnosis and support for people with FASD.
Although this is a different year with the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic still being felt, many people across Canada and around the world are finding ways to mark this day.
One such way is through the “Red Shoes Rock” campaign, which began in 2013 with RJ Formanek, an adult with FASD. RJ decided to wear red shoes to stand out, be noticed, and have some fun starting the FASD conversation with strangers. By doing so, his goal was to turn invisibility into visibility and change stigma into understanding and acceptance.
Today, many, including some CLBC staff members, are wearing red shoes to mark FASD Awareness day and to promote inclusion and recognition of people with FASD. You can learn more about this campaign, and find ways to connect and share stories online, by visiting redshoesrock.com.
You can also learn more about supports CLBC provides for adults with FASD who also have limitations in adaptive functioning through the Personalized Supports Initiative here.
