By Jeff Henson

FASD

Walk planned for Wednesday to recognize International FASD day

Sep 6, 2020 | 8:04 AM

Wednesday is International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Day, and the North West Peace FASD chapter is encouraging the public to mark the day by taking part in their Talk a Walk event.

Executive Director Gwen Vekved says FASD is a disability that is commonly seen across Canada.

“Current studies suggest that closer to four percent of individuals in Canada have FASD. That’s around 1.4 million people. So it is one of the leading disabilities worldwide, even though it is not as well known as other disabilities.”

Vekved adds their organization has a number of supports in place for expectant moms that are dealing with alcohol use during pregnancy.

“We work within our provincial guidelines to ensure that people have supports. We have preventative programs, and also the diagnostic piece. We have a diagnostic mobile clinic that runs around North West Alberta.”

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The walk goes from 10-3 on Wednesday at Muskoseepi Park, and participants can register at any point during that time and walk one of three different lengths (500 meters, 1.1 km or 3 km) that will be set up at the park.

Placards with information about FASD will be along all three routes.

You can also take a walk elsewhere and share details or a video of it to their Facebook Page.

A number of groups are partnering with North West Peace FASD in holding the event, including Alberta Health Services, Grande Prairie Family Education, Canadian Mental Health Association, Rotary House, Sunrise House, and the City of Grande Prairie.