Jack,
 Why do you assume that I consider it ok to give the gift packs to formula
feeding mothers? As I stated, we are trying to convince the administration
to stop accepting these free gifts in exchange for free formula (for those
mothers who have chosen to feed their babies that way). As an L&D nurse,
trying to get certified as the hospital's first LC (at their expense, I
might add), I can push the administration only so far. By not accepting
these free gifts, I am asking them to pay for the formula that we need to
have. I don't like it any more than the rest of you, but the reality for
small hospitals on tight budgets is: if you can get free supplies just by
advertising for the company, then you do it. I have often wondered how much
impact these freebies (in the hospital) actually have. Most women have made
their decision to breastfeed before they even get to us. I think we would
do more good in stopping the freebies given out at doctor's offices, where
women are first faced with the decision of how to nurture their child.
        It is also important for you to understand that these women (both
breastfeeding and formula feeding) EXPECT to get their free gifts. They are
contacted early on by the formula companies (again, this is initiated in
the clinic), sent coupons to obtain these gifts, and whether they plan on
using that formula or not, they da-n well better get their FREE gift.
        Sorry for ranting. Can you tell you hit a nerve?

Mary A. Banaszewski RN, Lactation Specialist

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> From: newman <[log in to unmask]>
> To: Lactnet <[log in to unmask]>
> Cc: Mary A. Banaszewski <[log in to unmask]>
> Subject: Hospital gift packs  of "sin"
> Date: Wednesday, November 26, 1997 6:32 AM
>
> Please explain why you would consider it okay to give the gift packs out
> to formula feeding mothers. *No* mothers should be subjected to this
> type of marketing.
>
> Jack Newman, MD, FRCPC
>