The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
International Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Awareness Day originated in 1999 by a group of individuals who were feeling frustrated about the lack of awareness by professionals and the general public about FAS, and who were trying to figure out a way to increase the world's awareness about the dangers of mothers drinking alcohol during pregnancy. International Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) Day is celebrated on the ninth minute of the ninth hour of the ninth day of the ninth month of the year signifying that during the nine months of pregnancy, a woman should not drink alcohol. It is also a day to remember the millions of people around the world who are living with alcohol-related disorders. On September 9 at 9:09 a.m. individuals across the world will take part in a "minute of reflection". The minute of reflection symbolizes the worldwide circle of community that links everyone who cares about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. It is a time to remember those who live with alcohol related disorders and it is a time to celebrate the successes, achievements and increased awareness of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. On Thursday, September 9 at 9:09 a.m., the Flin Flon/ Creighton Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Committee invites everyone to take part in a "minute of reflection". During this moment, people are asked to remember the approximately 60 million people throughout the world who are living with brains and bodies damaged by alcohol before they were born. Anyone who would like to participate in FAS Day may take a moment to share in the "minute of reflection" as it moves across the world. In addition to the "minute of reflection", many communities across the world and in many time zones mark the "magic minute" at 9:09 a.m., by ringing bells, which is called the "FAS Bell Concordance." The "FAS Bell Concordance" uses the purity of bells to symbolize the innocence of children and the joy of bringing the community together on such an important issue. In Flin Flon and Creighton plans are currently underway to organize participation in this event. In the early afternoon of September 9, the Flin Flon/Creighton Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Committee will be handing out free "FAS Knots" on Main Street. The "FAS Knot" is made of white cord. The circle symbolizes the womb, a baby's head, the human brain and the earth. And those who care about people living with FAS, are the knot that will make them whole. The knot was designed in memory of Abel Dorris, whose brief and poignant life resulted in the groundbreaking book about FAS called "The Broken Cord." Please wear the FAS knot and assist us in raising awareness of the dangers of women drinking alcohol during pregnancy. If women did not drink in pregnancy, FAS would be totally eliminated. An informational display on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome will be available for viewing for the general public at the Flin Flon Public Library during the week of September 7-12. For more information, please contact the Flin Flon/Creighton Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Committee at 687-8852.
