I just wanted to let you know that the support I received to breastfeed
after my daughter was born meant the world to me.  Although I am not a
LC, (yet :-) ) my personal experience with breastfeeding has inspired me to
work towards helping other women breastfeed their babies.  I joined this
list after doing some research and I plan to work towards becoming a LC.

My pediatrician's wife breastfed all three of their sons.  When I told him
in the hospital that I was planning to breastfeed, he was supportive but
let me know that breastfeeding is not necessarily easy.  He was very real
and I appreciated the truth of his words.  I had a c-section so I was in
the hospital for 3 days.  Two of those days I had a nurse who wasn't overly
positive about breastfeeding.  She kept saying that she could take my
daughter to the nursery to "top her off" with formula.  I didn't allow her
to do so even though I was upset that I had difficulty with her latching
on.  After I was discharged I met with a LC who helped us latch on and was
extremely supportive.  She was wonderfully caring and compassionate.  I
could go on and on with my story but I will stop here.

I guess after reading this thread I would like to say that although you may
have some mother's who may stop breastfeeding early, don't discount the
many mothers you may have been that extra bit of support that was needed
for them to continue on.  My hat is off to all of you who have chosen to
assist mothers who desire to breastfeed.  You are inspirational to me!

I was lucky to have the support of my husband, some family, my midwife, my
pediatrician, and my local LLL group.  I had a great deal of difficulty
after my daughter's birth with latch and thrush.  I also endured 3 bouts of
mastitis in the first 4 months of breastfeeding.

I hope I do not get in trouble for posting this as it is just my personal
experience.  I am not a professional, but I aspire to become one!  Thank
you for being there and doing the wonderful work that you do.  You DO make
a difference!

Warmly,

Kate Suttles,
mom of Kaia, 6 months old

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