September 9 is International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Awareness Day and one very passionate advocate for raising awareness of FASD is Lyndall Bartram, one of our amazing Metro South Addiction and Mental Health Services administration staff members.
Lyndall is a full-time carer for her grandson Xavier who has been diagnosed with FASD.
It has been a rollercoaster of emotions for Lyndall, having a lived experience of being a full-time carer for a person with FASD.
At times, it has been challenging juggling both work and carer responsibilities as Lyndall continues to advocate to get adequate supports for both her grandson and herself as a carer.
"I feel very fortunate working at Metro South Health, to have such an understanding and flexible employer who has allowed me to focus on my grandson as well as work," Lyndall said.
"I want to take the opportunity to raise awareness for people and families with FASD as I know very well from personal experience how difficult it is to get recognised, obtain assessments/diagnosis and receive supports and interventions for this invisible disability."
Lyndall will be climbing the Story Bridge which will be lit up red for FASD Awareness Day on Thursday 7 September at 4:40pm.
"I invite everyone interested in helping raise awareness for FASD to join me for the Story Bridge Adventure Climb or to attend the event and dress in red attire," she said.
The 9th day of the 9th month recognises the importance of staying alcohol-free throughout the 9 months of pregnancy.
Community events throughout the month of September provide opportunities to raise awareness about FASD and the risks of prenatal alcohol exposure, to support pregnant women and families, and to share this prevention message around the world.
For more details, please contact the Metro South Addiction Services Preventative Team on MSAMHS_ADS_Preventative@health.qld.gov.au.