I do not support the freebie formula for breastfeeding mom's (although I
did use my discharge bags to carry the necessities for a bf mom:  diapers,
wipes and a change of clothing - just the right size for a day trip if bf
but way, WAY too small if one had to take formula, bottles, etc.), however,
I beg to differ re: free gifts from other segments of the hospital.  When
one of my twins had bilateral inguinal hernia repair at 4 months he got a
stuffed toy.  And when both twins (now 14) and my 12 year old had PE tubes
inserted they were given stuffed bears.  Also when my youngest had surgery
for a blocked tear duct a year and a half ago, he received a stuffed lion.
And since 4 month and 6 month olds aren't particularly interested in
stuffed animals, these gifts were just about as useful as formula for a
committed breastfeeding mom.  These surgeries were at different hospitals,
so it seems children and gifts kind of go together for better or worse.
Just my .02.

Pauli Loeffler, peer counselor and mother to Alex, Bobby, Hunter, Trevor,
Audrey and Zach.