I have permission to post about the following.

My 3 yr old son's friend, Madison, nearly drowned in a pool accident 
several months ago.  She was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, 
but was resuscitated and has remained in an open eyed coma ever since. You 
can read her story at www.princessmadison.org. 

MRI's and EEG's show severe brain damage and the doctor's are not expecting 
her to ever be the same little girl she was.  She is now at home receiving 
physical therapy and outpatient care.  Madison and her twin brother were 
breastfed as infants by their amazing mother, Gina, for over a year. 

Gina and I have been talking about how breastmilk may be beneficial for 
Madison since the nutrition she is receiving via her g-tube has caused 
gastrointestinal problems and other side effects-I wont' go into detail but 
you can read about them on her site.  Also there have been studies on 
breastmilk helping cancer patients, ill adults, etc.  I decided I could 
donate my milk, I am nursing my 8 month old, if it would benefit Madison.

I am wondering if there have been studies on breastmilk for those with 
brain injuries, particularly those with this type of hypoxic injury. Or is 
anyone willing to start a study? I have not found much online or in the 
archives.  I know the advantages of Taurine and other amino and fatty acids 
which are known to promote brain growth and development, would this help 
Madison's brain?  Wouldn't it be amazing if it could help with her seizures 
and posturing!

Is there an expert able to give us an opinion on this and able to work with 
us if we have more questions? Also I am taking medications, safe for my son 
(L2, L3 ), and would like to know if it is safe for Madison as she is on 
med's.

Any links, advice, and information would be appreciated, you may respond 
off or on LACNET.

Thanks so much,
Nicole Hoff
Nursing Mommy-excuse the typos
Breastfeeding Peer Counselor in TX
Future IBCLC
CAPPA CLE Scholarship Recipient May'06
www.mybrightbabies.com

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