A local group hopes to bring attention to what can happen when a woman drinks during pregnancy. The Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Network of Northwest Alberta will be hosting an event on September 7 to celebrate International FASD Awareness Day.
North West Peace FASD Coordinator Gwen Vekved says drinking during pregnancy can lead to a number of problems in babies.
“FASD is used to describe a range of disabilities that may include physical birth defects and health problems including developmental delays, learning disabilities, memory problems as well as difficulties communicating feelings and understanding consequences.”
Vekved says one out of every 100 babies born in Canada is affected by FASD and in Alberta alone, there are an estimated 48,000 people living with the disorder. She says it’s important for people to support expectant mothers because no amount of alcohol is safe.
“Fetal alcohol is something that everyone can help with. Experts agree that there is no safe level of drinking during pregnancy so we want to make sure we are supporting women and their partners in this special time in their lives.”
Friday’s event will be held at the Ernie Radbourne Pavillion in Muskoseepi Park from 8:30 a.m.- 10:30 a.m. and will feature a pancake breakfast, displays and presentations from people living with FASD.