Lakewood Health System’s Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Clinic will hold “Pregnant Pause,” an event to bring awareness and understanding for disorders related to alcohol use during pregnancy.

Minnesota is ranked ninth in the nation for binge drinking amongst women of child-bearing age. This statistic is thought to increase the number of children born with FASD each year. To recognize and spread the word about FASD, LHS invites pregnant women, spouses, partners, friends and other community members to this fun, educational gathering on May 1. The event will take place in the lower level of Twisted Sisters Tavern in downtown Staples from 1—3 p.m.

The event is free and will feature opportunities to make handmade soap, lotion and a decorative sign for baby’s room, as well as sample exotic non-alcoholic drinks and plenty of snacks. Each participant will be given a free t-shirt and diaper bag and have a chance to win door prizes including a car seat and Bumbleride stroller valued at more than $450.

Pregnant Pause is sponsored by LHS in partnership with the Minnesota Organization on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (MOFAS). To register, call Mary Jo at 218-894-8054 or e-mail maryjohofer@lakewoodhealthsystem.com. For more information, visit the LHS website at www.lakewoodhealthsystem. com or www.mofas.org