Karen's Story: Navigating the Unknowns of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
It's one thing to share with others that your child has a particular disability, such as adhd for instance, as there's no sense of blame or guilt towards the mother. However, it's quite another to say my child has fasd, because this can only be caused by prenatal alcohol exposure.
Pregnancy is a journey filled with joy and challenges, but for Karen, it also came with unexpected hurdles. In this episode of 'Pregnancy and Alcohol: The Surprising Reality', host Kurt Lewis sits down with Karen, a mother who suspects her son has Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and is awaiting an official diagnosis. Due to privacy concerns, Karen's interview is recreated word-for-word by an actress, adding a unique layer to the storytelling.
Karen opens up about her experiences, shedding light on the critical importance of abstaining from alcohol before and during pregnancy. She reflects on how her own alcohol consumption before knowing she was pregnant might have contributed to her son's condition. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the lifelong physical and developmental challenges associated with FASD.
This episode doesn't shy away from discussing the guilt and blame that often accompany FASD diagnoses, emphasizing the need for reducing stigma and offering robust support systems for affected families. It's an eye-opening conversation that underscores the necessity of awareness and education about prenatal alcohol exposure. Whether you're a parent-to-be, an educator, or someone interested in understanding more about FASD, Karen's candid account offers valuable insights and fosters a deeper understanding of this critical issue.