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The Many Faces Of FAS

On Monday, May 27, at Chatelech Secondary Theatre in Sechelt, about 50 people attended the private premiere of a very powerful documentary. The Many Faces of FAS was directed and produced by the skilled team of Steve Sleep and Ed Hill.

On Monday, May 27, at Chatelech Secondary Theatre in Sechelt, about 50 people attended the private premiere of a very powerful documentary.

The Many Faces of FAS was directed and produced by the skilled team of Steve Sleep and Ed Hill. They got the idea for the film after attending The Breakfast Of Champions, a fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) educational put on by the FASD roundtable back in 2011.

The documentary starred Christine Tait, Micheal Oswald, Aaron Barr and Michael Horth. All four of these wonderful people were interviewed by Hill about what FASD means to them.

The movie opens with Oswald reciting his One Day Thesis. This, I believe, truly sets the tone for the film about understanding, acceptance and support.

Tait talked about her difficulties with certain school subjects and memory problems. Oswald spoke about his history of addiction and bullying in school. Barr mentioned that not many of his friends know he has FASD, but that he was totally comfortable letting them know. Horth expressed the difficulties with peer pressure and how he tries to avoid negativity in his life.

Later on in the film, parent Debbie Horth, key workers Jen Davey and Karen Foley and people in the education system such as Kerry Mahlman and Deborah Luporini were interviewed. They talked about the challenges faced by people with this brain-based injury.

The first major point made by all was that FASD is 100 per cent preventable. No alcohol when pregnant. No safe time. No safe amount - simple as that.

The second major point is that life-long supports are needed for children and adults with FASD from their families and communities.

Tait, Oswald, Barr and Horth also talked about their dreams and aspirations.

Tait told Hill how she wants to live in a nice house and have a good paying job. Oswald said he hopes to have some studio time in the future to lay down some rhymes. Barr spoke about having a career in carpentry, and Horth said he would like to work in a range of fields including computers or social work.

The 50 or so audience members, I believe, were utterly impressed by the words of these fantastic young people and the quality of the film.

Afterwards, during a social time with treats, coffee and tea, pictures were taken, compliments given and ideas shared. Everyone expressed how glad they were to be invited to see such a powerful piece of film.

The Many Faces of FAS will be shown on Coast TV channel 11 starting this month. Tell your friends, tape it, DVR it or whatever you can and spread the word. This is one movie that everyone should see.