First awareness conference to be held in Moose Jaw on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
The community will get an opportunity to learn more about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) as the Moose Jaw South Central FASD Committee, in partnership with the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute is pleased to offer an educational event for all community members and local service providers titled: FASD Conference: Building Capacity and Connections.
The conference will be held on Friday, October 19 at Hillcrest Church Hall- 1550 Main St. N, at 9:00 am- 4:00 pm (doors open at 8:30 am). Lunch will be on your own from 12:00-1:00.
The event is free to the public to attend but everyone is asked to RSVP with Shannon Gray by October 10 at mjacl.cdsconsultant@gmail.com or call 306-631-5613 for more information.
This is the first conference of this type to be held in Moose Jaw. The Committee says up to 4 per cent of people are affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in Canada. The conference seeks to promote awareness, understanding and support for those impacted by FASD.
Shannon Gray, who is one of the organizers of the FASD conference says this is an important conference that will not only increase awareness but highlight ways in which individuals can work together to address some of its challenges and provide support. “It is the first time we’ve put together a conference like this in Moose Jaw. We have had FASD awareness in the past but not of this particular format where we have a whole day event.”
She says there was a need for more information on FASD in the community. “One of our committee members felt there was a need for more information among our service providers across the community in relation to FASD and how to support people living with it. We wanted to be able to answer those questions surrounding FASD and how to provide support. As a result, we felt it was important to stage this conference,” Gray said. “It’s really about promoting awareness and providing support to let people know that they can be all that they can be if they’re living with FASD.” This event will feature various speakers that will shed more light on FASD. The speakers will be:
Marlene Dray-from the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute who will offer an introduction and overview of the medical condition known as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Dray will provide a deeper under- standing of the societal context of FASD. Shana Mohr-who is a parent of a young girl with FASD as well as a training coordinator with the FASD Network of Saskatchewan, will share what she has learned and experienced as a parent and an advocate in her efforts to overcome the ‘shame and blame’ discourse that surrounds FASD. Cheryl Charron- with the Regina Community Clinic will inform participants of the latest diagnostic processes surrounding FASD. She will also lead a discussion of the pros and cons of seeking a diagnosis and further describe the potential impact FASD has on the brain and body.
Niall Schofield-author of the book “Who Am I?” Schofield is a published author, public speaker, FASD Advocate and Policy Advisor, as well as being a wellness and fitness coach and model. He sends a clear message of hope while inspiring others to persevere in the face of adversity by sharing his personal story of living with a disability. Tara Castle- Supervisor from the Regina Provincial Court Office, will speak on the challenges faced by those who require services from the justice system and live with FASD.
The City of Moose Jaw recently signed a proclamation declaring September 9th as FASD Awareness Day.