Joseph's Story

“I could not have done this without ErinoakKids.” 

If you ask Joseph’s mom, Lisa, to describe her son, her face lights up before she mentions a single diagnosis. She will start talking about his big heart. Then tell you about his love for animals. Then how much Joseph loves being outside, playing with his neighbours and friends. 

“He is charming, affectionate, and full of joy,” she says. He loves to bring his mom flowers, and as his mom says, “he always means well and has the best intentions.” 

Yet, navigating the world with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) means Joseph’s journey has looked different. 

After birth, Joseph was put into foster care. And at six months old, he was adopted into a loving family. Joseph’s adoptive parents were aware of his biological mother’s history. Yet, as he grew up, his behaviour and clear developmental delays set him apart from other children his age.

When Lisa sought answers and support, she found herself navigating a system that offered few solutions and few clear responses. Joseph was kicked out of daycare and kindergarten before his family even had answers, a journey Lisa describes as an “uphill battle.” 

Misdiagnoses, like autism, were offered. But Lisa held out for the truth. And that is when, just weeks before his sixth birthday, Joseph received an official FASD diagnosis.  

That diagnosis was a turning point, but it also highlighted a quiet reality. While conditions like autism or Down syndrome are widely recognized, FASD families are often left feeling isolated. Lisa mentions that resources and support feel scarce. She had to resign from her job to care for Joseph and keep an eye on his impulsive behaviours, which is a common experience in the lives of those with FASD. 

Reach For It! - The FASD Program at ErinoakKids

Lisa describes Joseph’s time at ErinoakKids as a positive light in their journey. “All the FASD staff at ErinoakKids have been fierce supporters of Joseph, and have helped me navigate the school and community issues.” 

She mentions how ErinoakKids has taught her so much about how to be resilient, for herself, for her family, and for Joseph.  

“I could not have done this without ErinoakKids.”  

Despite the system-level gaps, the warmth of the community keeps Joseph and his family going. On his street, the neighbourhood kids accept Joseph for exactly who he is. They meet him at his level, drawing with driveway chalk and playing together without judgment.

Within his specialized education program, dedicated one-on-one support gives him a chance to learn in an environment tailored to his needs. And Lisa has connected with other parents that also have children with FASD, finding community in common struggles and celebratory milestones.  

September is FASD Awareness Month

This FASD Awareness Month, stories like Joseph’s remind us why starting the conversation matters. True inclusion isn’t just about listening. It’s about equality, having access to resources, and ensuring every child’s unique strengths are celebrated. 

Although Joseph experiences struggles related to his FASD diagnosis, he is kind and vibrant, and always takes time to show his family and friends how much he loves them.  

*Joseph has participated in the creation of this story, and gives consent for his story to be shared in hopes that it helps spread awareness around the lives of those with FASD.