Alcohol Awareness

We adopted our daughter when she was a baby, but it was not until she was 6 that doctors finally diagnosed that the root of her problems was FAS (Foetal Alcohol Syndrome). When we tell people she has FAS, they always respond, "What is that? I have never heard of it."

FAS is part of the Foetal Alcohol Spectrum of Disorders, a range of physical defects and emotional and behavioural problems due to brain damage which are caused by birth mum drinking during pregnancy. This brain damage is irreversible and lifelong. Our daughter is beautiful, delightful and brings great joy to our lives. However, it is highly unlikely that she will ever live independently.

In other countries, such as the USA, France, New Zealand, there is lots of information available on FASD and the potential dangers of consuming alcohol when pregnant. Here in the UK the situation is the opposite and we want this to change which is why we started The FASD Trust to raise awareness and to support those affected by FASD, their families and carers.

Alcohol can be so much a part of our lives that we forget that it may also be harmful, especially to an unborn baby. In May this year the Government announced that they were now advising pregnant women not to consume alcohol during pregnancy and when trying to conceive. We, as a family, were pleased with this change of guidelines as we live on a daily basis with the result of alcohol damage to a child before they are born. This damage is wholly preventable, so please, if you are pregnant - or suspect you might be - think before you drink.

For more information contact The FASD Trust, PO Box 507, Witney, OX28 9EB. Call the helpline, 0560 268 9478 or visit www.fasdtrust.co.uk.