I have to chime in on this theme because I too have been through a period of
stress about 4 years ago that ended up being a life-changing event.  Barbara,
I knew I liked you!  Again, there are similarities in our personalities that
I can relate to.  I think you are an awesome person with your sincerity and
your outlook on "nurturing each other as LCs" and now, on nurturing
ourselves.  I had allowed myself to get to a point that I could hardly
function physically.  My stress was exhibited in physical pain.  Since then,
I have drastically changed my attitude on work ethics.....I do not, and will
not, ever put an organization in front of myself in terms of priority.  I
don't mean it in a bad way.  I have strong work ethics, and I am a loyal
employee.  But, I too, was forced to stop and smell the roses....and, I
definitely take care of myself better....I've learned to self-pace, to relax,
to get monthly massages, to sit....and sit....and sit....., and to breathe.
My pain is my blessing because it is a constant reminder to keep myself in
balance.  Okay, how does this relate to the topic of Lactnet, well, this
personal transformation is the reason I entered private practice with
passion, and it provides me with my vision and my mission for my service.
So, in a nutshell, it is why I am here and why I am adament about what I
choose to do with my God-given talents.  I receive my directions a lot
differently since I've learned to really listen.  It's an awesome journey
that I challenge everyone to take....our profession would grow thru
mentoring, collaboration, authenticity, integrity, nurturance, and honesty.
Have a nice day!
Sincerely,
Carol Chamblin, RN, MS, IBCLC
Breast 'N Baby Lactation Services, Inc.
Geneva, Il

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