I suffered from PPD after my oldest was born. At the time, I was unaware of treatment options that would allow me to continue to nurse my baby. Because of that experience, I am a strong advocate for maternal mental health and educating patients about how taking care of themselves can assist with meeting breastfeeding goals.

Seeing patients meet their goals and overcome nursing challenges.

Hospital, NICU, outpatient, WIC

I'm married with two boys. I also am the proud fur mom to two rescued mastiffs, Roux and Mavis.

I love to read anytime I can find a minute. In the summer, I can be found in my pool floating around with my kindle. 

I also volunteer with Southern States Mastiff Rescue, where our mastiffs have all come from. I have been with them for 15+ years.

I also very much enjoy workouts and do yoga most days.

B.S. Sociology

Virginia

While nursing my second child, I discovered that when I was able to help friends overcome a breastfeeding challenge or answer a question they had, it gave me so much joy! I then began doing research as to how I could pursue IBCLC certification.

I became an IBCLC because I discovered that breastfeeding was really my passion. Being able to have even a small part in empowering a patient to nurse their baby gives me a strong sense of purpose. Giving patients the knowledge and confidence to give their babies the gift of a strong, healthy start makes me feel like I am positively impacting the world around me.

I would absolutely tell every parent to take a prenatal breastfeeding class! Having the knowledge of what they can expect in the first few weeks of life relating to feeding can be so impactful and gives confidence to a parent.