Russell Family Fetal Alcohol Disorders Association

Have a look at this email from Arbias - The RFFADA is getting closer:

In partnership with the National Organisation for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum and Related Disorders (NOFASARD) and the Russell Family Fetal Alcohol Disorders Fund, I am pleased to announce the development of Australia’s first Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) diagnostic and support service. 

As you may be aware, FASD is internationally recognised as the leading cause of preventable disability in children in the Western World. Throughout Canada and the United States, there are up to 70 diagnostic and support services dedicated to the early diagnosis, management and support of people affected by this highly prevalent yet little known or understood condition. Yet in Australia, there have historically been no multi disciplinary diagnostic or support services that have enabled this condition to be diagnosed or adequately managed.  The lack of services in Australia for people with FASD has resulted in misdiagnosis of this condition, lack of awareness amongst the general community and health, education and allied welfare sector, inappropriate support for people with FASD and families and no uniform response to addressing what is largely a preventable disability. The FASD Diagnostic and Support Service will be fully operational on Monday 16^th July 2007, where people suspected of FASD can download a referral form for assessment by visiting the arbias website.  Our acknowledgement to Ms Sue Miers, Spokesperson NOFASARD and Ms Anne (Elizabeth) Russell who have for over the past decade advocated tirelessly for the introduction of a multidisciplinary diagnostic and support team in Australia. All of us here at arbias have been inspired by your relentless drive and commitment to people with FASD. We look forward to continuing our work together.     

Hardcopies of the FASD services brochure will be available from arbias or alternatively, downloadable from the arbias website. Please forward the attached information to those who believe may benefit from this important service.

Sonia Berton CEO Arbias  

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