Written by guest blogger, Jennifer Pitkin, IBCLC
Like most things in life, the road to breastfeeding success is less bumpy and more enjoyable when you have a good supporting cast riding along with you. Questions are certain to arise: Is my baby latching correctly? Is he getting enough to eat? Why is she so fussy today? What are we going to have for dinner? and/or Why am I so exhausted?
When Tobi Porter, a Florida Paramedic and firefighter went back to work after her maternity leave, she wanted to continue providing her daughter breast milk. She found time to pump in the back of ambulances and between emergencies. Most firefighters work 24 hour shifts, Tobi was no exception.
As a breastfeeding and working mother, Tobi worried about storing enough milk for her husband, Clay, to feed their daughter while she was at the fire station. She needed to have enough stored for several daytime and nighttime feedings.
Lauren was born in August and the days were warm and still. I felt relatively well and especially grateful to not be pregnant anymore in this hot weather. Lauren was breastfeeding around the clock and my older boys were busy with outside activities.