All of us at FASD United are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend and FASD champion Jeanne Mahoney.  For many years, Jeanne served as the main point of contact between FASD United and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the FASD United team always regarded Jeanne as much as a friend as a colleague.

Jeanne directed ACOG’s FASD initiatives and was the Director of the ACOG Provider’s Partnership until her retirement in 2019.  FASD United was honored to be part of this partnership, a CDC-funded initiative to improve women’s health through collaboration between health care providers and national organizations.

Jeanne was the point person at ACOG for educating obstetricians and gynecologists across the country about FASD and the fact that no alcohol is safe during pregnancy.  Jeanne focused much of this work on developing strategies for OB-GYNs to effectively ask women about their alcohol use, provide counsel on cutting out alcohol, and share information and resources to those who may have an alcohol use disorder.

Through her work with ACOG, all of us at FASD United got to know Jeanne’s tireless dedication to women’s health and particularly her passion for reducing the impact of alcohol use in pregnancy and improving the lives of those affected.  Along with her leadership on prenatal alcohol exposure, Jeanne led ACOG’s work in the areas of prenatal tobacco and other substance use, behavioral health, maternal morbidity and mortality, gestational diabetes, and women with disabilities.

FASD United (then NOFAS) recognized Jeanne with an honorary award in 2015for her many years as a leading voice and stalwart advocate for alcohol and pregnancy awareness and FASD prevention. Accepting the award, Jeanne said, “It has been an incredible journey with you over many years” and spoke about the importance of educating OB-GYNs in identifying women with alcohol use disorders.

FASD produced a video feature on Jeanne in 2012.  In the video, Jeanne talks about how OB-GYNs can ask their patients about their alcohol use.  Jeanne says, “At ACOG, we love to partner with NOFAS [now FASD United] and the work that they’re doing.  They have so many great resources for us and for our patients.”

Prior to her work with ACOG, Jeanne worked in the Massachusetts Department of Public Health where she led risk reduction programs for women of reproductive age. During Jeanne’s nursing career, she specialized in Maternal and Child Health.

All of us at FASD United will greatly miss Jeanne’s incredible spirit, her warm affection and love for all people touched by FASD, and her passionate dedication to the fields of FASD and women’s health.