by Margery Frisch
M’CHIGEENG—September 9 is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Day. This is an internationally recognized day for raising awareness of the disorder and those living with it. For this occasion, Charlene Corbiere, family coach and FASD coordinator at Noojmowin Teg organized a run, walk, stroll at Lakeview School in M’Chigeeng.
“The Anishinabek Nation, working in North Bay with the Indigenous Services there, have a run, walk, stroll which they’ve done annually—10K, 5K. I liked that idea,” Ms. Corbiere said. “I was trying to think of what I’d do on this day. They have a kick off at 9 am, so I decided we’d do ours on the same day, so we’re collaborating in spirit,” she said.
Though the turnout at the event was less than exceptional, an opportunity was given to those taking part which would not have been possible otherwise. Participants signed in and were given a red card (the colour for FASD); each lap around the track at the school was marked with a punch hole to the card, simultaneously they were given an FASD fact by Charlene Corbiere.
“Did you know…” is how she began each fact. “Did you know that four percent of Canadians are diagnosed with FASD?” These facts, while slowing the procession around the track, generated worthwhile discussions among the participants.
Helping Charlene with the event was a fellow Noojmowin Teg co-worker Denver Leeson, Food is Medicine coordinator and Janice Cada from the United Chiefs and Councils of Mnidoo Mnising Justice Program.
FASD is a disability affecting those who were exposed to alcohol while in the womb. The affects on the brain and body last throughout one’s lifetime, but with proper help and special support it is possible to lead a fairly normal life. The month of September is dedicated to FASD awareness. It’s not too late to learn what you can about this fairly common disorder.
