I often feel like lactation education was a divine destiny for me because I have experienced most of the breastfeeding issues lactating families face today; such as engorgement, mastitis, blebs, latch pain, scarred nipples, flange size issues, and low supply. With four daughters who have all been breastfed a year or more each, I have had so much joy breastfeeding them that the momentary pain I felt eventually canceled itself out, and I was able to enjoy the bonding experience with all of my girls. I went through a grieving phase after weaning each of my girls and have been able to share all the high and low experiences with my patients to help them see that they are not alone on this journey and that they have a supporter who has been where they are now.

There is so much satisfaction in seeing parents get to that "aha" moment. Knowing that something I was able to educate them on, will now make their lives a bit easier and help them reach their goals. That's what gives me joy.

Pediatric clinic and in-home visits.

Spouse Jason and 4 daughters, Harmoni (16), Ava (12), Sade (8), Nina (6)

Listening to music, and going on park outings with my family.

Licensed practical nurse

North Carolina

I knew I wanted to become an IBCLC In 2020 when I took the course to become a CLC through the Healthy Children's Project. When I became certified as a CLC in January 2021, I started the journey to become an IBCLC.

To help families receive a warmer and gentler approach to lactation. I have been told I have a calming personality, I have used this personality type when working with parents, making them feel more comfortable and confident that they can meet their goals, and not feel like they are being judged and chastised when they don't get their goals met right away. Patience has been a virtue and helps me to effectively educate families struggling with lactation issues.

Give yourself some grace and relax. Do not pour from an empty cup, be a caregiver to yourself, so that you can effectively care for your baby(ies).