Today after Breastfeeding Support Group, Bryce and I went to Babies R' Us to buy a few essential duplicates for the sitter, including a couple new sleep sacks and a few big Dr. Brown bottles (love 'em). While standing patiently in the check out line I noticed that the customer in front of us was buying a shload of formula. I started feeling very sad for the woman and her infant. I wondered if they had ever tried nursing, or if they had but received little or no support or encouragement to continue. Most likely the baby will grow to be healthy and happy with a great relationship with her mother. Imagine the millions of parents who choose to give their children formula.... all of the nutrients specific only to that child that s/he will never get, those mothers and babies who will not decrease their risk of developing breast and other cancers, and all of the money spent on the cans filled with powder! Those are only a few of many things that formula mums and babes miss out on.
Please don't misunderstand me, I fully recognize that every mother has to do what is best for their family during that time, given whatever circumstances that may exist. But, given proper education, understanding, encouragement from family and friends, and support from employers and the government every child (and mother) should have the opportunity to nurse.
Breastfeeding Bryce has been amazing for us both, and I sincerely want every mama and baby to experience it and reep the many benefits that it offers!
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