We’re a little over a week into FASD Awareness Month, and guess what time it is?! It’s FASD Awareness Day, THE internationally designated day recognizing fetal alcohol spectrum disorders and those living with them. The first ever FASD Awareness Day was celebrated on September 9th, 1999 (9/9/99). Brian Philcox and Bonnie Buxton (Canada), parents of children with FASD, as well as Teresa Kellerman (AZ), decided that the 9th day of the 9th month of the year would serve as a reminder that no amount of alcohol is safe while pregnant. This includes the first day of conception through the end of the nine months gestation.

FASD Awareness Day is a beautiful and significant tribute to everyone involved in the FASD community as we look back onto the past and understand where we started/came from. However, it also importantly represents where we’re headed and asks us to embrace the future of FASD policy, practice, and research. This day is much bigger than its three founders and much bigger even than its powerful reminder; it is about the community, all of us. How do we support and show care for those with FASD? How do we unify our goals and movement to pursue the healthiest options for those who are pregnant? Our dedication and progression can drive us to real solutions and compassion.

In the 50th year of diagnosis in the United States and the 24th year of FASD Awareness Day, we are proud to be the national voice on FASD, helping educate the public on the risks of alcohol consumption during pregnancy. We want to support those with this diagnosis, those who have been misdiagnosed, and those who haven’t been diagnosed at all. You are not alone; this community is mighty and incredibly passionate.

Want to learn more about FASD? We suggest reading and sharing our 50 Things for 50 Years document included below. This is a collectively compiled list of things about FASD and PSE that the general public should know from FASD United and our CDC partners.