Siksika Health Services’ FASD Program: A New Name, A New Chapter
We are proud to announce that Siksika Health Services’ FASD program has been given a new name. Through a traditional naming ceremony held at the Siksika Health & Wellness Centre on May 8, 2026, Natoi’kaaksiimi Clement Leather, Traditional Grandfather of the Siksika Societies, gifted the name Saapaatssi’moh’sookoi to the program, meaning “It’s for everyone.” This name reflects the spirit of moving forward in the right direction, together, as a community.
The program formerly known as Siksika’s Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Program has been a cornerstone of our community’s health and wellness services. Built on the three National pillars of FASD programming, it combines a community-based approach with home visitation and ongoing follow-up supports. Because FASD is a lifelong diagnosis with no cure, the program is designed to walk alongside individuals and families at every stage of life, from early identification through adulthood.
Siksika Nation holds a distinction that we carry with great responsibility: we were the first First Nation community in Canada to offer this type of FASD service delivery locally! Over the years, the team, led by Vanessa Doore under the guidance of Pauline Yellowfly, and now led by Tyane Redgun under the guidance of Vanessa Doore, have helped build the foundation for FASD programming across First Nation communities throughout Alberta and Canada. That work has required creativity, dedication, up-to-date training, and a deep commitment to our people.
The name Saapaatssi’moh’sookoi better captures what this program truly is: a welcoming, inclusive service for anyone who needs it. It is our hope that this new name helps reduce the stigma that can come with an FASD diagnosis, and reminds every individual and family that support is available, and that they are not alone.
We are grateful to Elder Clement Leather and Traditional Wellness – Moatokiks Society Member Piitainin’nawakii Leanne Sleigh, and to the organizing team and community for this meaningful gift. Saapaatssi’moh’sookoi: it’s for everyone.
