Hi, I'm new to LACTNET (but not to breastfeeding) and am looking forward to
all the information and networking!  I'm a Neonatal Clinical Nurse Specialist
and LC (IBCLC) in Albuquerque, New Mexixo working across several units (NICU,
L&D, Newborn Nursery/Postpartum & any other units with neonatal needs).  My
job is quite autonomous and ever-challenging so that I'm always on a new
learning curve! My primary focus is on program development, projects,
practice issues etc. ... breastfeeding is the focus of much of my time since
providing consistent care for families was poor, and knowledge base often
founded on incorrect information! (what a surprise!).  I chair breastfeeding
committees for newborn and NICU units so that we can share the responsiblity
of improving care together as a team, rather than taking this on alone.   I
also work on the NICU unit as time permits so that I can maintain my skills,
NICU certification, and credibility with my peers.  My background is neonatal
nursing - NICU, newborn units etc.  I also have a recent certification as a
Developmental Specialist, having completed an intensive 12 month training in
NIDCAP (Neonatal Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program)
based on Heidi Als theory of neurobehavioral development.  This has been
extremely rewarding (I was one of 4 NICU nurses to do this) and has given us
great insights into supporting preterm/ill infants with feeding among many
other things.  I'm also feeling fortunate that within the last year we opened
a Mother-Baby Post-discharge clinic in response to a new New Mexico law
requiring extended care for Early Discharge moms.  This opened the door to
providing phone and in-person help to all moms --- 99% have turned out to be
breastfeeding of course!  It's been a fascinating experience especially since
we are seeing more and more slightly preterm infants ( 35-36  weeks) that are
in our Newborn Nursery and discharged early only to  experience feeding
difficulties.  It's a rewarding population to work with, but frightening if
help isn't available.

On a personal note I'm the mom of 3 daughters (now 23, 19, & 17) who were all
breastfed.  I was an active LLL for 10-12 years beginning in Germany where my
husband was stationed. We're in Albuquerque for good I hope! --- it's a great
place to be, close to skiing and nearly always sunny skies!