Mother of two, Kerri is a teacher, volunteers with her local ministry, and takes graduate classes. Her youngest child, now nearly eleven months old, struggled with lip and tongue ties as well as gastrointestinal discomfort. Both children are now thriving thanks to her dedication and selflessness, as well as her apparent ability to get by without sleep. When she’s not teaching, taking care of her family, or volunteering, Kerri runs an Etsy shop creating keepsakes for parents.
As of today, how long have you breastfed your child?
10 months and 1 week for the baby. I nursed my eldest for 2 years.
Did you decide to breastfeed while you were pregnant?
Yes, never considered anything else.
Was your family supportive?
Very!
Were there challenges? If so, how did you overcome them?
Reflux, projectile vomiting, constant spit-up, oral dysphasia, tongue and lip ties. I continually nursed on demand (up to 15+ times a day!) and became a medical advocate for my son. He still has challenges eating anything other than breastmilk straight from the breast, but we just keep pushing through!
What resources did you draw upon for help?
My Facebook mom groups, lactation consultants, feeding therapists.
What advice would you give a nursing mother experiencing a challenge?
Don’t give up on your worst day! Make sure that everyone around you knows how deeply you desire to breastfeed and only offers breastfeeding friendly advice. If you decide to supplement with donor milk or formula to save your breastfeeding relationship and sanity (I did twice for each baby- my milk comes in really late) then it needs to be your, and only your, decision.
What’s the best thing about breastfeeding?
Convenience! I live in that constant “mom fog” and I am so glad I always have food attached to me. 🙂
Is there anything else you want to say?
Breastfeeding is natural, but it does not come naturally. Know that you are literally MADE for this. Allow yourself and your baby to take time to learn together. And above all, relax and BREATHE! <3
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