Ellen's case reminds me of a couple situations I discuss when talking
about dad's role.  Both were moms with severe post-partum complications
that required mom to be on complete bed rest after delivery.  In both
cases the mom did not want to give up breastfeeding.  The dads stayed in
the room with moms and did everything for the baby except the actual
feeding-changing, rocking, bringing to mom and helping with position and
latch, burping, etc, etc,.  In each case when I asked the dad who had
more hands on time with baby, him or mom, they instantly responded that
they did.
So in this case, I would wholeheartedly agree that mom should take any
offers of help-with all the nonfeeding aspects of baby care.  This will
leave her with the energy necessary to do what only she can do for the
baby-nurse it.  This will do wonders for her empowerment as well.
Imagine how she might feel if she can't do even this most elemental
aspect of mothering her child.
Why does society in general immediately assume it's the feeding that
tires a mom when there are so mony other things moms do that can be
tiring without the reward?!
Winnie

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