I first became interested in Lactation Consulting in 1988, when I had my first experiences in Postpartum nursing.  At the time, I was working in a Newborn Nursery, but was frequently assigned to the Postpartum/women’s surgical unit where I noted a distressing lack of support for, and actual disdain (from the staff)  for breastfeeding mothers. I felt ashamed and knew that I needed to be the one who went against the tide, by learning and utilizing as much about breastfeeding as I could in helping the mothers in my care.

 

We had one Lactation Consultant available to the hospital Although I never had the opportunity to meet her, I was very influenced by her existence! In 1991, when I had my daughter Meredith (my first child). When I was handed a little, pink bundle, I suddenly found that I suddenly had 10 thumbs attached to my hands (despite years of handling and caring for infants). I found that not only was my child much more important to me than anything ever had been in my life, but I also understood the loving motivation to do the very best, and the frustration involved when support and information is lacking to help.

 

The relief that I see in a mother's countenance when we finally get baby nursing gives me the greatest sense of satisfaction as a Lactation Consultant. Mom has learned to work through any problem she has, and she is confident to stay with it because of the information and support that she has empowered me to provide. Conversely, the fact that there is no magic wand for problem solving can be very frustrating. Each mother and child combination is different. Time is the confounding factor.

 

My husband is a warm and lovingly involved father to our children and my strongest supporter. He has always allowed me to pursue my dreams and take my time. Of course, I think my kids are great. They are healthy, happy, and funny!                                                                                              

 

I don’t take enough time to have any hobbies, but I like hacking around with my computer. The things I have learned have provided me with the ability needed to produce all of the materials in use by BestFed Associates.