SUPPORT
AFTER
FETAL
DIAGNOSIS OF
ABNORMALITY

S.A.F.D.A.
Victoria

What is SAFDA?

SAFDA was established in 1994 to provide added support to families who have had to make difficult decisions because of a diagnosis of a fetal abnormality.

Experienced professionals including genetic counsellors and social workers have come together to offer this support network.

How can SAFDA help?

At the time of diagnosis, testing and decision-making can often seem overwhelming. Events move so fast that there maybe no time to reflect fully. The experience maybe be so profound that it takes months for its meaning to sink in. Family and friends may offer a lot of support at this critical time.

As life moves on, many parents welcome contact with others who have shared similar experiences. It can be helpful to gather with others who understand, to share and reflect on what has happened.

What are shared experience meetings?

Shared experience meetings give the opportunity to meet other parents in small groups and talk over issues of mutual concern. There is no set topic in these meetings. The group members direct the discussion and participate as much as they choose.

Are the meetings confidential?

Everything discussed at the meeting is confidential and we ask that the privacy of those present be respected.

Who else can I talk to?

The genetic counsellors are available for individual discussions upon request in addition to existing support.

Where are the meetings held?

Location
Meeting venues alternate between the Royal Women’s Hospital (cnr Grattan St and Flemington Rd, Parkville); and SIDS and Kids, 1227 Malvern Rd, Malvern.

Date
SAFDA meetings are every three months on a Tuesday evening.

Time
Meetings are held from 7 – 9 pm
The meetings run to time and refreshments are provided.

RSVP
It is necessary to establish group numbers for the meetings. Please RSVP if you will be coming. You can RSVP by email to Lydia Gaffney or phone 8345 2180.

SAFDA Newsletters

If you do not currently receive the SAFDA newsletter but would like to, please call or email Lydia Gaffney with your contact details on 03 8345 2180 or lydia.gaffney@ghsv.org.au. You may also like to write to us:

Genetic Counselling Service

Royal Women’s Hospital
Cnr Grattan St & Flemington Rd
Parkville VIC 3052

More Information

For information about SAFDA, including written resources & support groups, you may contact genetic counsellors at either:

Royal Women’s Hospital - 8345 2180
Monash Medical Centre - 9594 2026
Mercy Hospital for Women - 9270 2394

We would like to acknowledge the support of Genetic Health Services Victoria (GHSV) and the Genetic Support Network of Victoria (GSNV).