Hi Laurie and all,

Here in West Michigan we began the quest for BFH last fall. Sending to BF-USA
to get the packet of info about the process was very helpful.  They suggest a
self-appraisal, which is included in the materials they send.  Instead of
using this tool as a "one-person" tool, all the members of the Breastfeeding
Committee completed the tool separately and then we compared answers once we
were back together.  It was a real"UH-OH" moment when the group had to look at
each of the little details under each of the Ten Steps.  Before the self-
appraisal, the group feeling was that we weren't too far off....after the
appraisal, everyone said, "YIKES! There are very few that we can absolutely
say we achieve 100%"  It was especially good for that to be a group
realization (not just the LC Zealot).  Then we prioritized areas that we
thought we could have some "quick success", without too much resistance.  It's
been very emotional, and more difficult than expected..we had hoped to submit
our "letter of intent" during this month (July 98).  We're not quite there,
but I think by  Sept we will be...and THAT is JUST THE BEGINNING...so, be
prepared!  But the process is just as important as the outcome, and so I have
learned this year to be grateful even in the valleys!

Keep on Keepin'On
Jan Yarberry, RNC, IBCLC
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