Hi all, after quite a while of lurking, I'm temporarily back into lactation things again. I wanted to comment on the recent discussions on dealing with unsupportive HCPs, and some of the other interesting discussions of late. To refresh you all, longtime LactNut (since 97), 5 children, 4 breastfed, one premie who died shortly after birth, LLLLeader and military wife. I was at first a bit depressed by Dr. Gordon's post, because if he (as an MD) has a problem discussing breastfeeding information, where did that put me. Then I realized that it isn't a real case of the initials or lack there of, it is the other person's 'problem' (whether it is a lack of education, miseducation, personal biases or whatever), not solely who is providing the correct information. I have been pleasantly surprized this past month with having someone from both my local hospitals (one military, one civilian - neither breastfeeding supportive) both call me and refer the particular mother to me. Then a local pediatrician called me to refer a mother! I am so pleased in an area where the support has been so negative, that slowly, it seems to be turning around. Just in time for me to move and leave this area without LLL! Also an article on LLL appeared in the May 7th, 2001 issue of The Army Times. The author is an LLL Leader and the main point of the article was that for those of us who move around the world frequently LLL is a common connection. It had some good basic LLL/breastfeeding information too. I mention this LLL info because it goes to another discussion recently, I believe that we all (whatever our initials, associations, or profession) have a place in the lactation field. I see myself providing basic information, support and companionship to mothers. I know many of the professionals in the field do not have the time to provide the more time intensive interactions. On the other hand, I rarely encounter some of the situations and problems others here on LactNet have and I know that while I'd be interested in assisting in the solution, I would not be able to do it alone. The short end, we all have a place in this field and I think can work together. As always, a much longer than intended post and wondering since my two teens just finished school, my daughter and grandson are currently living with us and we are now slated to move in Sept - just what kind of summer I'm going to be facing. Leslie Ward, LLL Fort Hood, TX *********************************************** The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(TM) mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html