N’Mninoeyaa Aboriginal Health Access Centre

 

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder/Child Nutrition Program

 

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Day

September 9, 2009 @ 9:09am

The world will remember: September 9th @ 9:09am all the people affected by prenatal alcohol exposure or better known today as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. This day was first initiated by a number of people on the online support group “FASLink” who were feeling frustrated about the lack of awareness by professionals and the general public regarding fetal alcohol syndrome. A total to 20 volunteers from around the world began working together to build awareness and by September 9, 1999 events were held in communities across Canada, United States, South Africa, New Zealand, Germany and Sweden (FASWORLD.COM). At precisely 9:09am around the world people will offer a moment of silence, or the ringing of bells. Some form of event will occur to bring this awareness to the forefront.

 

In 2003 Mamaweswen, North Shore Tribal Council held its first FASD Day events at the Indian Friendship Centre of Sault Ste. Marie. There the 7 First Nations came together to listen to teachings in the prevention of alcohol and pregnancy and witness the birth of a young eagle staff. Since then, many of the First Nations and Indian Friendship Community have celebrated International FASD Day on 09/09.

This year 2009, First Nations and the Indian Friendship Centre communities in Sault Ste. Marie held a “Wear a T-Shirt To Work” Day with the slogan “F.A.S.D.: It’s Not Our Way” in the celebration of International FASD Day. This event was to help create awareness that alcohol and pregnancy do not mix and to gather support for families affected by alcohol and pregnancy. Within the Aboriginal communities, many families are affected by this life-long disability. Through promotion, awareness, education and support, our member First Nation’s can succeed and become the best that they can be.

On behalf the FASD/CN program of Mamaweswen, North Shore Tribal Council, chi-meegwetch for participating in this worthwhile cause. Together we can make a difference!


FASD: It’s Not Our Way!

Click To Enlarge or Print the FASD Brochure

 


WEBSITES:

Anisnabek.ca

Mother Risk.org

CCSA

Health Canada

Edmonton And Area FASD

FASD Support Network of Saskatchewan Inc.

FASlink Fetal Alcohol Disorders Society

fas World

 

FASD Exercise:

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Simulation Exercise


Contact: Mary Elliott - Community Capacity Developer

 

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