FASD Ireland, the national organisation for people living with Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), their families/caregivers and supportive professionals are sending solidarity to their sister organisation in the UK, National FASD and to the family of Sam Gardiner, following his untimely passing on 29th May.

Gardiner, who was a contestant on BBC’s ‘Race Across the World’ in 2020, died from his injuries following a car accident on May 29th. He was 24.

Speaking from their Head Office in Ennis, CEO of FASD Ireland, Tristan Casson-Rennie said; “on behalf of all here at FASD Ireland, I want to extend our sincere condolences to the family of Sam Gardiner. His parents Jo and Andrew, his

brothers William and Charlie, his stepmother Justine, and all who knew and loved him. I also want to send our solidarity to all in our sister organisation in the UK, National FASD.

Sam was an incredible role model within the FASD community, and although he has left this world far too soon, his sad passing has ignited a public conversation around FASD; the strengths possessed, and challenges faced by people living

with the condition. Sam showed us all how to dream big and to live in full colour. Ár dheis Dé go raibh a Anam dílis.”

Following his death, a JustGiving page has been set up in Sam’s honour. His mother, Jo said; “If some good comes of this tragedy, it will be that FASD is better understood”. FASD is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition resulting from

prenatal alcohol exposure. It is the most prevalent neurodevelopmental condition in Ireland, yet FASD is not recognised by the State as a disability and there is currently no standard pathway to diagnosis or framework of support.

FASD Ireland operates FASD Hub Ireland, an expert advice and advocacy line for families living with FASD and professionals supporting them. It operates Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm and is available by calling 065 670 3098.