Like many young people that enter to foster care system at birth (and about 1% of all children^), Liz was born with a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). FASD describes a class of permanent birth defects caused by maternal consumption of alcohol during pregnancy, such as fetal alcohol syndrome . As is a the case with many newborns with FASD, Liz she was immediately placed into the foster care system. After four brief placements, Liz was placed with the Kulp family, who instantly fell in love with her. When she was just 14 months old, the Kulp family got a wonderful belated birthday present – Liz was legally adopted and officially a member of their family. Liz is an inspiration to young people all around her; she speaks at local high schools, colleges, and community organizations about fetal alcohol syndrome and the effects it has on a child. She is also involved with and dedicated to many other organizations that spread awareness about FASDs. She is the co-author of “Best I can be living with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome or Effects” which won the 2004 Mom’s Choice Gold Award, as well as the author of “Braided Cord, Tough Times In and Out” which won the 2011 Mom’s Choice Gold Award. She’s also involved in the process of creating website to help provide information for young adult transitioning with FASDs. Liz hopes to one day work with at risk youth to help prevent them from making poor decisions and entering the juvenile justice system.
