Welcome to
—September

Six years ago, after a lifetime of difficulty and a decade of ill health, I was diagnosed with FASD. It’s been a rough journey, but understanding the challenges and access to support has allowed for healing and fundamentally transformed my life for the better!

Today I have the tools, knowledge and support to use my strengths, achieve my goals and contribute to my community in positive and meaningful ways, a life I had always hoped for.

I share my experience to raise awareness, support alcohol free pregnancies and highlight the importance of correct diagnosis and informed services. We have made great strides in Australia, but there is much more work to do, and we need your help!

It can be hard to believe but FASD is the leading cause of non-genetic disability in Australia yet remains one of the most heavily stigmatised, underdiagnosed and misunderstood. 

Stigma and misinformation continue to push individuals with FASD, their families and carers into the margins, leaving us out of critical conversations about alcohol harm, neurodiversity, health care, education and much more. This has devastating and far-reaching consequences for individuals and their families as well as impacting literally every sector of Australian society.

By rocking your red shoes (or socks) over the month of September and sharing accurate information about alcohol and pregnancy with your friends, family and networks, you help relieve the stigma and shame that keeps individuals like me, and their families, hidden and unsupported.

Your support allows us to be seen. Elevates our voices. Shines a light on inequity. Reframes accountability, supports inclusion, minimises the harm and ultimately aids prevention.

Make no mistake that recognition saves lives, it saved mine, and I thank you for your support.

Jessica Birch
FASD Advocate
Red Shoes Rock Team