My husband and I are the parents of two amazing kids. Our son, now 18, has an FASD and he was not officially diagnosed until 3 1/2 years ago. There were very few resources for our son and very few professionals who even knew about FASD. Not only are my husband and I parent advocates for our son, but we started our podcast and website to give other families HOPE and to share the journeys to those in the FASD community. The time is NOW to start talking and start the change to increase awareness, resources and support for those who live with FASD (and their families and loved ones). Let’s use our voices for change and to listen to what is being said by those in the FASD community!
I’m the mom of two adults with FASD. Many of my smiles over the years have belied the heartbreak that I felt when they were younger and that continues today because their permanent disabilities are still not widely validated and understood by medical experts, therapists, addiction counselors, law enforcement and representatives of supported housing.
As a father to individuals with FASD, I struggle with the lack of connection to other families like mine. Reducing the stigma and shame around FASD would allow for sharing of knowledge and parenting strategies for parents like me.