With over 1.5 million Canadians living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), a local network is bringing together powerful voices to share their stories of strength and resilience. The Sarnia-Lambton FASD Network is hosting "Living with FASD: Real Stories, Real Strength," a free panel discussion aimed at fostering a deeper community understanding of the disorder. […]
With over 1.5 million Canadians living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), a local network is bringing together powerful voices to share their stories of strength and resilience. The Sarnia-Lambton FASD Network is hosting "Living with FASD: Real Stories, Real Strength," a free panel discussion aimed at fostering a deeper community understanding of the disorder.
The event, which takes place during FASD Awareness Month, will provide a platform for those with lived experience to speak directly to caregivers, educators, service providers, and community members. An estimated 4% of Canadians have FASD, a figure greater than the number of people diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, and Down Syndrome combined.
The panel will feature nationally recognized FASD advocates Matt Sinclair, owner of All Relations Consulting, and RJ Formanek, who founded the Red Shoes Rock movement. They will be joined by three local individuals who will also share their personal journeys navigating life with FASD.
Panelists will explore a range of critical topics, including:
School support and educational experiences
Employment challenges and workplace accommodations
Building and maintaining friendships
The role of family and advice for caregivers
Transitioning into adulthood and self-advocacy
Tools, strategies, and supports that make a difference
The session is a unique opportunity for the community to learn how to better support individuals with FASD from the experts themselves.
Event details are as follows:
What: Living with FASD: Real Stories, Real Strength
When: September 25, 2025, from 5:00–7:00 PM
Where: Pathways Centre for Children, 1240 Murphy Rd, Sarnia
Cost: Free, with snacks provided
The Sarnia-Lambton FASD Network is a collective of 14 local organizations and professionals working to align supports for those affected by FASD. Their FASD Resource Hub offers consultations to caregivers and community members to build skills and strengthen competence in providing support.
