"Breastfeeding support has been an incredible gift"

When my daughter was born, the breastfeeding support team rang the first morning she was home just to see if I had any questions. I didn’t have many at the time but it was really nice of them to call to check. 

Then the next day my daughter was blue-lighted to hospital for vomiting blood. The issue turned out to be swallowing blood from my cracked nipples. Breastfeeding support sent out a worker right away. This is one of the defining moments of my life. 

Kelly arrived and it was like an angel had descended upon our chaotic, newborn, first-time-parent home. She lovingly taught me how to breastfeed correctly, showing many different positions and tips for latching. She answered all of our questions and more.

She was also an extremely kind and comforting presence. Her deep level of knowledge in the field of breastfeeding and infant care was really helpful—she even advised on ways that other cultures handle breastfeeding. Lastly, she helped us figure out how to co-sleep safely, which has been instrumental to making breastfeeding work. 

She has continued to be available over text whenever I’ve had a breastfeeding issue, providing encouragement and information. She has supported us through our CMPA journey, as well. Breastfeeding is now so incredibly important to me and my husband and I can’t ever imagine giving it up. 

Breastfeeding support has given our family the most incredible gift. This service needs to be available throughout all of Scotland.