Hi,   my name is Paula Ray RNC, IBCLC. I work in one of the larger Medical
Centers here in East Texas . I have 3 children ages 5 / 7 / 9 , who were all
BF until age 12 - 13 months ( by then they had weened themselves). I have
been working as a Maternal / Child Nurse for 9 years now, and have been
working as a IBCLC since Nov. of 1993.
Things are very exciting in our hospital right now.  The other Lactation
Consultant and myself have been fortunate to have very supportive Nursing and
Management leaders. Since Jan. 1994 we have housed inside our Center for
Womens Health , "The Lactation Center ". Our OBs and Pedi's are actively
refering their patients to us, and often write orders for "Lactation Consult
before discharge " on inpatient mothers.We make inpatient round,  have
outpatient services, provide annual manditory Lactation Education for all
Maternal / Child staff ,conduct antepartum Lactation classes through our
childbirth ED dept. , and see all BFing couplets in the Lactation Center at
age 7 - 10 days for weight check and Lact. assist as needed.
The Hospital has connected us a dedicated Lactation Line that is answered by
voicemail 24 hours a day. At this time we are in the process of expanding our
Lactation Practice to include 24 - 36 hours followup with vaginal delivery
and a 24 hour post discharge phone followup with all Cesarean deliveries. We
have a active M----- rental station, and see or talk with mothers in the Tri
- State area.
I have been enjoying On-line info for awhile now, and my partner just pointed
me in Lactnet's direction. It is going to be great fun to share with other
people who promote Breastfeeding.
Thanks,
 Paula Ray, RNC, IBCLC
Longview, Texas  USA