I breastfed two children for a total of about 38 months, never missed a day! I continued breastfeeding my daughter a few months into my second pregnancy. My second baby was tongue-tied. I had some challenges, including having a doctor tell me to supplement with formula when he was not at his birth weight at day 10. I told the doctor I had 4 days to reach his birth weight and that I would keep breastfeeding. With my husband's support and my family, in 4 days my baby surpassed birthweight by 1 pound 2 oz and I went on to breastfeed him for 23 months. I have been a working mom, pumping and nursing on my lunch breaks, pumping on the way to work using the car charger. I have breastfed in public settings including breastfeeding in the hallway during my lactation break on the day of my IBCLC exam! I totally understand some of the challenges women endure and I want to help them all overcome.
The ability to help mothers unleash their milk superpower and mentor others to do the same .
Hospital labor and delivery, community clinic/WIC, NICU, home visits, virtual, support groups
1 son, 1 daughter, military husband
Poetry, dance, spending time with family
Previous CLC, Bachelor's in Biology,
Master's in Public Health w/ a concentration in Maternal and Child Health, Certified in CPR, Current Doctor of Chiropractic Physician student
What inspired me the most is the disparities in breastfeeding. As a black woman, I advocate for equity and inspire to help women of color feel empowered through education, promotion and protection of breastfeeding. I choose to be their voice, their sister, their biggest cheerleader and a small page in the book of their breastfeeding story. My hope is to normalize breastfeeding among all cultures!
Be patient with yourself and your baby/babies and never give up on your breastfeeding goal. RISE above your fear! RISE above the challenges!
Breastfeeding is like learning to dance- it takes practice and just like every step counts, every DROP counts with breastfeeding. It takes the same determination to breastfeed for a day or a year: the right mindset.
I say this because although breastfeeding is natural, it doesn't mean it will come easy for everyone. Each breastfeeding journey is different and we all have the power to make it a legacy.