I'd like to add to Gail's message on ignorance and Linda's message about how
IBCLCs keep up to date.  I have recently needed to seek references from some
of the doctors in Harare and I'd like to share what one of the most highly
respected obstetricians wrote for me, not to toot my own trumpet, but
because I'm touched by his generosity and praise for our profession, and
thought 2000 of my closest LC friends might enjoy it too!  This man is a
stickler for detail, complications for his postpartum moms are almost
unknown, and he is rumoured to read every single paper, journal and article
which crosses his desk. He has been consistently supportive of breastfeeding
in general and LCs in particular (telling me once "You people save *lives*!)
ever since I went to introduce myself to him so many years ago. This is what
he wrote:

" .... I am a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist in full time private
practice and ----- is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant.
Over the course of the last 11 years I have had occasion to ask for ---'s
advice and help in connection with numerous lactating and other mothers.  I
have always considered that one of the omisssions in the training of a
medical student is, amongst other things, the fact that they are not taught
anything to do with lactation.  We are taught the physiology but not the
problems of the lactation process.  Because of this severe lack in my own
knowledge I have had to ask ---- for her help and advice very often..... and
she is very, very competent at dealing with lactation problems.  It has been
a considerable comfort to me to be able to ask her for help.  I cannot
recommend her highly enough.... Over the years I have also had occasion to
ask for updates in my knowledge of lactation and possible problems with it
....   ------ has always been extremely helpful even giving me advice which
I have been able to quote in my lectures and talks ... She is as up to date
as one can be in her field...."

Isn't that just amazing??  I'm considering framing it .....

Pamela Morrison IBCLC, Zimbabwe
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