For My Miracle I Keep Going

By Lilyvette Cummings

My son was born on March 26th, 2004, 6 weeks early. I always intended to breastfeed, but now I had to learn how to use a pump. The lactation consultant showed me how to use the pump and for the month that my son stayed at the NICU I pumped for him. When we first tried to breastfeed he was only a couple of days old and he was about 3 pounds. He couldn't latch on and the nurse brought me a nipple shield. He was able to latch on then and that is how our breastfeeding experience started.

We have had our ups and downs but I am so proud of my son and I am so proud of what a great mom I am. My son has gained weight beautifully and at each appointment the Pediatrician keeps saying , "Keep doing what you are doing, keep breastfeeding that baby". I believe that the reason for him being so healthy and to have gained weight so quickly is because of my precious milk. I remember how my breast was bigger than his head, he was so tiny. But breastfeeding was the best thing that I could have done for him.

After our routine was establish, mommy had go back to work. I was very sad. I was now a full time working mom. It is extremely difficult to cope with all the tasks that as a full time working mother must accomplish. When I feel exhausted I just think of what a miracle my son is , and for my miracle I keep going.

At my job, I pump three times a day in the "Mother's Room". In the beginning I had to pump in the bathroom, (not sanitary), then I was pumping in my car. I had to explain to my boss about pumping and I was new to the department so it was kind of hard to explain that I "pump". I kept gathering information until now I am in a comfortable room, which I store my milk, and pump for at least 15 minutes three times a day without a problem.

My husband has been a great help though my breastfeeding experience. Once I introduced the bottle to my son, my husband started feeding the baby. He is such a great help when available, since he is a pretty busy man. He is such a great dad I would not have it any different.

We have been through supply issues and growth spurts, and many times I felt like quitting, but something always stopped me. My son is now a healthy 6 months old, breast feed only baby. I am so happy for all that he has accomplished. Would I change anything if I could? NOT A THING! Even with all the obstacles that we have encounter I would not trade the beautiful experience that breastfeeding my son has brought to our lives.