September is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) awareness month, a time dedicated to creating conversation on FASD, improving prevention of FASD, and supporting those living with FASD.

The theme for 2022 is Building Strength and Abilities. While it is important to recognize that individuals living with FASD will experience challenges, it is essential to recognize and celebrate their talents, strengths, and abilities.

National events this year are being inspired by the Red Shoes Rock movement, a grassroots FASD awareness initiative symbolized by red shoes, founded by Canadian RJ Formanek, an adult with FASD who wore red running shoes with a business suit to stand out as he spoke to the public about FASD. His goal was to make the invisible visible.

The Canada Rocks Red campaign this year encourages Canadians to use the colour red to heighten the recognition of FASD. Wearing red shoes, red socks, or red footwear is a simple individual gesture of support during September.

Experts agree, no amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy.

Preventing FASD is everyone’s responsibility. Expectant mothers and their support networks can make healthy choices before, during and after pregnancy. Family, friends, and communities can all help. FASD is preventable if women and girls have the right supports and if communities act together.

People living with FASD are resilient and have much to offer. People living with FASD can and do succeed with the right supports and services. These supports can be offered by family, friends, and the community. An individual living with FASD may also require specialized education programs, supported independent living environments and peer/community mentor support to participate in community activities. Families affected by FASD may benefit from specialized training, funding initiatives, and respite and support groups.

For more information on FASD see:

• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder