Group providing FAS information

WASILLA -- Sunday was International Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Day, and a local group is trying to make the public more informed about FAS as part of the day's recognition.

Two years ago, Sept. 9 was selected as International FAS Day. The reason Sept. 9 was chosen is because it is the ninth day of the ninth month, and should serve as a reminder to women not to drink alcohol while pregnant.

"You have to make people aware of the issue before you can teach prevention," said Roxanne Sawyer, a local mother who is spearheading the effort to form the Mat-Su FAS Diagnostic Team. "It damages so many families, and people just aren't aware enough."

As part of International FAS Day, Sawyer and other local residents will be distributing a brochure about FAS.

"We are designing a little flyer and trying to get that information out to as many people as possible," Sawyer said.

The Mat-Su Diagnostic Team is still in the formative stages, although there have been a number of planning meetings.

Grant proposals are due in Juneau on Oct. 12, and that is the last hurdle to clear for funding.

There is a community planning meeting at 4 p.m. today at Best Western Lake Lucille Inn. People are invited to attend to help give their input for the team, Sawyer said.

"I've been impressed with the excitement of the local agencies with this project," Sawyer said. "They have really gotten involved."

For more information about the FAS team, interested people can contact Sawyer at 376-6800.