Kayla came to CSS’ Morning Star program in Red Deer feeling overwhelmed and in need of social support after leaving the hospital with her newborn baby.

Having spent her entire life in foster care, she struggled to find a sense of safety or connection with anyone, especially parental figures. Shortly after aging out of the system, she gave birth to her own daughter, and as a young mother with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) diagnosis, she required substantial assistance to learn how to live independently, care for her child, and build her confidence.

Kayla was referred to the CSS Morning Star program, where she received ongoing counselling for what appeared to be challenges around bonding with her newborn. The fact that she still hadn’t named her daughter five months after birth only heightened concerns, as she referred to her child simply as ‘Babygirl.’

But, Patricia, the Morning Star Service Coordinator, recognized Kayla’s genuine attachment to Babygirl and her fears about her daughter’s development. To alleviate these concerns, Patricia offered to conduct an Ages & Stages questionnaire, which ultimately showed the infant had no evidence of delays.

During their conversations, Kayla revealed how a hospital nurse had continuously questioned her about alcohol use and FASD without ever taking the time to explain what FASD truly meant. This lack of information had kept Kayla in a state of anxiety and uncertainty believing she had passed FASD on to her child.

Through compassionate conversations, Patricia helped Kayla understand that her FASD diagnosis was due to her mother’s drinking during pregnancy, and since Kayla did not drink during her own pregnancy her daughter had no chance of having the disorder. Patricia confirmed with Kayla that Babygirl was healthy and secure, dispelling her fears of the potential apprehension of Babygirl.

This new knowledge brought Kayla immense relief and a sense of empowerment. Nobody had ever taken the time to explain her FASD diagnosis to her before. She now felt capable of providing a safe home for her daughter.

Just before Christmas, Patricia received a Christmas card from Kayla and Babygirl.

Enclosed was a picture of Babygirl’s updated birth certificate. Kayla had finally chosen a name for Babygirl that symbolized the strength she gained through the support of Morning Star and Patricia’s unwavering belief in her.

The card was signed “from Kayla and baby Patricia”.

This heartfelt gesture was a profound honour to the Morning Star coordinator, reflecting the powerful bond formed throughout their journey together.