“Whether your children are babies or grown, being a mother is always a big adventure!” Corien, The Netherlands
Enjoy these past entries: (more names BELOW)
Barbara Carson, Amelia, Virginia USA: One of my most treasured items is my copy of THE WOMANLY ART OF BREASTFEEDING signed by all the founding mothers! Such wonderful memories of those years! And now my eldest daughter has just joined LLL and is successfully nursing their first child, our first grandchild! [October 2005]
Claire Ginesi, Sonoma, California USA: Just wanted to say thank you to La Leche League for helping me raise two sons in the way my husband and I wanted to. LLL helped me nurse a baby/toddler who had several complex and major surgeries for two years, and have the ability to nurse my second child for 4 years (Mom knew more the second time around). Thank you for Dr. Bill Sears, the family bed, and help to have the patience and fortitude to go against the grain of the times. Our home birthed boys are now 21 and 24, and are awesome human beings. Thanks for being there!! [October 2005]
Kathleen Kirchoff, Richardson, Texas USA: My 3 kids are excelling in school and I've returned to full time art teaching. Teaching is no longer a "mommy size" job thanks "No Child Left Behind" so I am so thankful I had the chance to be at home when my kids were nursing. I work with alot of pregnant and new mom teachers and am appalled at the bad breastfeeding info they are getting from their doctors and the inflexiblity of some school administrators in accomodating those who try to pump. So I try give support when I can and give my students learning that is measured more by the heart than a standardized test. So I still use League skills at home and on the job. [October 2005]
Celina Dykstra, Sanbornton, New Hampshire USA: Even though I have not been active as a La Leche League Leader since 1998, when my youngest daughter was injured in a car accident, La Leche League is never far from my thoughts. Every time I see a baby I wonder "Is this mother nursing her baby? Does she know of the tremendous amount of support La Leche League can offer her? Do her health care professionals know what a wealth of information is available?" And so it is time to reconnect, yet again and find some way to continue the circle of giving which began so humbly 26 years ago in North Central British Columbia when I was expecting my first baby at the tender age of 22. This past July, when in British Columbia regarding legal matters surrounding the aforementioned accident, I was able to visit Quesnel, BC where 3 of my 4 babies were born and where we established strong bonds with my co-LLLeaders and numerous LLL members. I had the opportunity to visit briefly with seven or eight of the women that were brought into my life through LLL and was able to see their babies, now teenagers, preteens, school age and toddlers. Many I had never met, many were babies when we moved and some were that awkward pre-adolescent stage. How they have all grown. And I couldn't help but think "Their own mother's milk made them so very strong and healthy. The mothers did this with support that LLL provided". What a blessing. Most touching was one father's remark that their youngest, at age two, was still nursing "But you probably don't want to know about all that..." Oh yes I did! He continued "Thank you for helping us with our first baby. If it wasn't for your support, we wouldn't have been so successful." and I say "Thank You, La Leche League, for making it possible for me to be in the position to help everyone who asked for it in my community". Now it is time to decide what I want to be when I grow up and I am repeatedly drawn toward becoming a Lactation Consultant. What better place to start than here, at your door, again. I'm looking forward to reconnecting as an Alum and continuing what has proven to be an invaluable relationship in my life and the life of my family. [October 2005]
Elizabeth ("Beth") Lines, Tallahassee, Florida USA: My youngest son, Michael, and his wife, Rachael, are expecting their first child, and my first grandchild, in mid-March 2006! I used to lead meetings with Michael in my arms...seems like an age ago. All the best to all actvie and retired leaders! [October 2005]
Jacquelyn Dalton, Gilbert, Arizona USA: Leader from 1979-1984. We had great groups and always a great time at meetings. Became leader in late 70's and continued until mid 80's. Had groups in No. California and Mesa, AZ. My co-leaders in CA were Pam Norton, Linda Oates and Margo Smith. In AZ it was Mickey Gauen and Nancy Chamberlain. We had a wonderful time and great memories. Still run into moms who remember us and the great groups we had! Thanks for the memories. [October 2005]
Marla Lynch, Poway, California USA: I did not know there was an alumni organization. I will probably join! LLL was fantastic for me and my children when they were tiny. They are now happy, healthy, homeschooled teenagers (ages 13, 15, and 17). My 15-year-old was an especially high-demand infant. Without LLL, I would not have had the confidence to mother her in the way she needed to be mothered. I basically carried her until she was independently mobile -- she wouldn't have it any other way. She is still especially close to me, and this is wonderful in the midst of the teenage years. She is also seriously considering becoming a lay midwife -- and I know our LLL experience has something to do with that. Thank-you for all you do! [October 2005]
Chris Kester, Salem, Oregon USA: Would LOVE to reconnect! [October 2005]
Linda Hume (formerly Marshall), Rowley, Massachusetts USA: I was a dedicated member after nursing an infant through a rough start in life I started the chapter in the Am,esbury/newburyport area. Now I am a grandmother, my daughter is expecting her first -- looking forward to being her consultant! I could not have done it without the LLL support -- loved helping others in my role as leader. [October 2005]
Charlene Wrzesinski, Sherman Oaks, California USA: I am so impressed by the website, and pleased to see you have quickly taken on the AAP on the recommendations re crib death. Sure didn't sound right to me when I read about it. So culturally biased. I came to the website to see whether there were materials I could find in the Russian language for my expecting daughter-in-law in St. Petersburg, Russia. It's great that you have materials, as there is a language barrier that prevents my discussing the fine points with her. Also my youngest daughter, an Army wife, has just commenced attending meetings in Manhattan, KA, and there is an inactive leader right there in Fort Riley she can talk too. Everybody is covered! [October 2005]
Kathy Reed (formerly Troupe), Decatur, Alabama USA: All of my children are grown to be happy and healthy adults. Being a La Leche Leader gave me confidence in myself, helped me to become more outgoing, gave me the opportunity to feel good about helping others, and helped me make many good friends. It also gave me the ability to do what is right, even if it's not popular. [October 2005]
Liz Bell, Granger, Indiana USA: Leader from 1987-1992 in Springfield, Illinois.
Oldest son, Peter (attended LLL meetings in Toledo), is a grad student studying chemistry at the Univ. of Pittsburgh; 2nd son, Mike, is a senior at Purdue studying computer science. We've been in the South Bend, Indiana area for 10 years and love it here. Hello to any former LLL leaders/friends who see this and say, didn't I know her? [October 2005]
Linda Dudek, Lantana, Texas USA: Former Member, both in the Chicago area, and then when we moved to New Jersey. Now am eagerly anticipating first grandchild! [October 2005]
Allison Harris, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire England: I became a LLL leader in 1982 after the birth of my 2nd child when I lived in Honduras, Central America. I have since had 2 more children, the youngest of which is 15 yrs old. I have always kept up my knowledge of breastfeeding as I have worked on childrens wards and maternity units for the past 10 yrs and am now working with mothers in the community, so use my skills almost daily. What a lovely job I have and worthwhile! [October 2005]
Eva Scholfield, Toms River, New Jersey USA: As the mother of three sons, a La Leche League Leader for more than 6 years, my dearest dream has come true. My first daughter-in-law plans to breastfeed. I am searching your site for some information for her. The baby is due New Year's Day 2006. [October 2005]
Robyn Sheik: I learned about La Leche League in 1977 when I was expecting my first child. He was term was great at breastfeeding, my second baby was 2 months early and a real struggle (the nurses used to tell me that breastfeeding was not good for a premie). A few years later I became a neonatal nurse. Now 18 years as a NICU nurse I am enrolling in a lactation educator course, I am currently a NICU RN and a lactation resource nurse at a large childrens hospital. I feel all the struggles I went through with my premie helps me help the moms become successful and confident breastfeeding under challenging circumstances. Those decades ago at the meetings gave me the confidence and courge to breastfeed, and the support so that I could be successful in breastfeeding a sleepy premie. [October 2005]
Alison Eklund, Florida USA: I was a member for many years in the 70's. I am now having grand children and am encouraging my children to nurse their children. My daughter did for 2 years. My son is having his baby in 3 weeks. They plan to nurse, but I am worried that my daughter-in-law may not be as commited to the idea as I am. I hope I don't make any enemies here. I am somewhat of a bottle smasher. [October 2005]
Kelly Carlie, Leroy, New York USA: La Leche League was a big part of my life from the time I was pregnant with my first child until my last child was about 2 years. The group I belonged to was very supportive. Twelve years later I still have fond memories of my La Leche days as well as the wonderful friends I made. [October 2005]
Deb Pollock, Arkansaw, Wisconsin USA: I was "mom-at-home" from 1979 to 2003. I now work part time at a lovely, family centered assisted living, where our residents range in age from 58 to 92, but the majority are elderly. My education and experiences as an LLL leader, from 1982 to 1993, have contributed immensely to my present job, which I love, taking care of the elderly and disabled. Everything I learned in LLL has come back to aid me: human relations, communication, and leadership skills especially. Leading a group and listening, empathy, patience, understanding...The skills you learns as an LLL leader in your younger years will last a lifetime and forever give you guidance! [October 2005]
Lucy Utt, Clarksville, Tennessee USA: I nursed my two children (back in 1970s and 1980s) for a combined total of seven years, served as group librarian for a number of years (loved having the library at my house). My daughter has breastfed her two little boys, my son's baby was nursed for a short period and my daughter's best friend (a true member of our family) who is expecting next spring is gearing up to do the same. The heritage is a precious one that nurtures whole human beings who have respect for the human process and who by extension nurture everyone around them. [October 2005]
Diana Hopkins, Leslie, Missouri USA: LLL has been an integral part of my parenting and my life. I have met the greatest and most influential people through LLL. I had to retire as a Leader when, after the birth of my last child, I struggled to cope with the demands of such an active family as ours had become. The mission of LLL is never far from my heart as I homeschool my five boys and work part-time as a doula, or labor assistant. Thanks LLL! [September 2005]
Gayle Gray, Tolland, Connecticut USA: My oldest is 21 and my youngest is 4. I became an LLL member when my middle child was an infant. It didn't occur to me to join when my oldest child was born, even though I was nursing him, because a friend had told me it was a "cult" :). Oh, how I wish I had joined then, especially as a first-time mother surrounded by friends who had never even considered nursing and having all the insecurities as a new parent and then some. When I finally did join LLL, the meetings and leaders gave me more support and encouragement for nursing and parenting than any other person (except my very pro-breastfeeding husband), organization, magazine, book, health care professional or family member. It did not change the way I thought about being a mother, but affirmed what I knew in my heart to be the way I wanted to mother children. I just cannot thank LLL enough, I wish every new mother would give it a chance. [September 2005]
Lisa Marie Mosley, College Park, Georgia USA: All the groups near me are now gone. I am having my second child in January. I will have to look into becoming a leader this time around. [September 2005]
Mary Jo Meyer, Kiel, Wisconsin USA: I came to this web-site to find a meeting to take my pregnant daughter to. I was a leader in the '80's and found my greatest help and friends through LLLI. Now that I have one daughter nursing a two year old and a member of LLLI in Milwaukee,WI and two more daughters who are expecting, one in Nov. and one in Feb. I thought it would be nice for the four of us to go together to a meeting and re-introduce my daughters to LLLI so they will feel comfortable calling or attending meetings in the future. [September 2005]
Ann Jennerman, Birchwood, Wisconsin USA: Started in 1981. Became a Leader in 1985. AFter that, District Advisor, and then Assist to State Director (Wisconsin). Awesome memories, awesome experiences, awesome preparation for that "next step" in my life. Went on to a degree in Public Relations Communications (minor in women's studies), then (2) Master degrees in Vocational Rehabilitation and School Counseling. Currently beginning an EdS in School Psychology. LLL helped prepare me for college by giving me the head start on child development, child psychology, and psychology of women. THANK YOU for giving me the "courage" and opportunity to become the person I am today. [September 2005]
Ann Littleson, USA: Hi everyone. Just wanted to let you know that the extended Ewald family will be out in force on October 1st. We are participating in the Alzheimer's Assoc's Memory Walk 2005 in Joliet. We walk in honor of my mom, Faith Ewald, a former LLL leader and longtime member. Mom was diagnosed with dimentia about 2-1/2 years ago. She is doing well physically and is especially enjoying her twentieth grandchild, Mia, who will be a year old in October. We ask for your support for the cause in any form--donations, prayers, good thoughts and most importantly, keep her in your memories! Thank you! [September 2005]
Mary Wheeler, Thompson, Ohio USA: I went to LaLeche League when I first stated breasfeeding 18 years ago. I have since had 4 more children and have nursed all of them. We moved alot in that time, so I didn't find a La Leche in every place we lived. I did not nurse my first 2, and know how much better breastfeading is, by experience. I'd like to be able to share my experiences, but haven't found a place to do that yet. At the moment I am nursing my 2 year old. I nursed all 5 of my children that I nursed an average of 2 1/2 years. My 5 year old I nursed till she was 3 1/2, and I intend to nurse my 2 year that long or longer. I do feel nursing is the most special relationship you can have with your child. They grow up way too fast (I know because my oldest is 22). I feel you should nurse as long as you can. Most of my children I stopped nursing because I got pregnant and nursing made me have contractions, so I had to stop. I've always wanted to be able to tandem nurse, but that isn't a choice in my case. [September 2005]
Linda Harrod, San Bernardino, CaliforniaUSA: We've come a really long way! 25 yrs ago a working career minded woman cried out for help! I did not know any women w/children much less breast feed! I came from a bottle generation. The light in in the darkness that allowed me to feel good about giving my baby the best! allowing me to stand tall against rude uninformed. Proud mother of a daughter that has two, beeming breastfeed healthy children! Thank you so much for helping unconditionally! [September 2005]
Elizabeth Swift, Pittsford, Vermont USA: La Leche League was one of the most important influences on my parenting my children. I also rather wonder if the founding mothers' influence wasn't one of the reasons that I am now a Roman Catholic. My youngest, (who weaned late) still remembers nursing and also remembers deciding to wean. She is now 23 and hoping that marriage is not more than a few years away. She is looking forward to nursing her own babies someday. I stayed on as a leader until homeschooling and 4-H commitments became more appropriate ways to be spending my time. I have to admit that I still miss La Leche League and the moms and babies. I'm so glad that LLL is still there and continuing to help new moms. [September 2005]
Corien, Oost-Souburg, The Netherlands : I was an active leader for a copple of years. I had 4 children in five years time and breastfed them all for a few years. I'm no longer a member of LLL anymore, but I really enjoyed that time. Now I am working again, my children have grown up and are real fine people. They are doing good at studies and job's and relations. Our family is getting bigger and bigger...Sometimes it is just me and my husband at dinnertime- sometimes we are with 15 people at our table! Whether your children are babies or grown-ups, being a mother is always a big adventure! [September 2005]
Beth Burr, Lynchburg, Virginia USA: I breastfed three of my children until they were two, and found LLL to be an invaluable source of information and support. My youngest is now 17. [September 2005]
Marilyn Carbone, West Chester, Ohio, USA: I was a Leader many years ago, my youngest is 20 now. My daughter, age 32, just had a baby girl last week, and is breast feeding. I just purchased her the newer version of the Le Leche Leage Book, since mine, which I still have may be a little outdated. My daughter says she remembers the meetings out our home, there were always 15 - 20 women with their babies nursing and sharing information. It was wonderful experience for all. I feel blessed to have had such a wonderful group to share my experiences with. [September 2005]
Marjorie Woods, Owensville, Indiana USA: I became a leader in 1972 and organized groups in Gibson County Indiana and Mt Carmel Ill. I was a Reg nurse Maternal Child Health teacher at St Mary's and Deaconess Schools of nursing. After retiring from nursing, I felt a calling to ministry and returned to school attending Seminary at Garrett in Evanston Ill. I have been the pastor for two small Methodist churches for the past 14 years. There is no group in Gibson County so I continue to do my best to help moms and babys when I can, refering them to the leaders and groups in Evansville. I also have been very interested in politics. I ran for office. After winning I served eight years on our town council. Four of these years as president. It was one of the most difficult jobs I have ever done but also very rewarding. Every one should have the experience of serving at least one term. LLL continues to be very important to me. My thanks goes out to all the leaders who continue to serve LLL !!! [September 2005]
Ann Backhurst, Mobile Alabama USA: In my Michigan lifetime, I was a Leader and ACLA (I think y'all call it something different now. Now I am retired and the grandmother of seven with number 8 on the way. My third daughter has followed in my footsteps and is a Leader in the Carey NC area. Daughter #4 lives here in Mobile and is pregnant with her first baby. She is delighted that I am nearby and has her own built-in LLLeader. [August 2005]
Bridget Laskowski, Valonia, Arkansas USA: I was an LLL Leader from 1976 to 1991 in Little Rock Arkansas. I was also a HRE for 10 years. [August 2005]
Jean Lynch Templeton, Mineola, Texas USA: I was a leader during the mid seventies through late eighties. My locations were Texas City , Tx and Tyler, TX. My name was Jean Brassard. [August 2005]
Jean Loscotoff, Springville, California USA: IMy memories of LLL from 1974 through '83, when I started teaching school, are precious. During my 20 years of teaching, I continued to give the young teacher/mothers advice. When they found out I had been a LLL leader, they even asked for help, unsolicited. My 30 year old daughter has met people when she taught who remembered me and were thankful for the help LLL gave them. She is now expecting my first grandchild in October and will receive from me "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding" at the baby shower. I would love to continue helping out LLL and new mothers. [August 2005]
Susan Wirtjes, Waterloo, Iowa USA: I was a LLLeader from 1972 - 1982 and am now privileged to be a full time, hospital-based Lactation Consultant. [August 2005]
Judie Ellison, Heltonville, Indiana USA: What a pleasant surprise to not only see familiar names, but also my picture!! Even after nearly 40 years of LLL membership (34 as a leader) the connections I have made and still make mean so much to me. We now live in Indiana near 6 of our 10 grandchildren and enjoy traveling so we can see the other 4. [August 2005]
Dianne Mansfield, Terre Haute, Indiana USA: After being a LLL Leader from 1972 to sometime in the early '80's, I went to seminary when our youngest started school. I am an ordained Disciples of Christ minister. When our middle daughter had her first baby in 1991, I became a Leader Reserve. In July of this year our baby (30 years old) had her second baby. Being a grandma is fabulous. And, I am so proud of my babies and how they have nursed and nourished their babies. [August 2005]
Jennifer Feigel, Evansville, Indiana USA: I became a leader in 1984. We had two kids then and went on to have five. Our oldest girl just graduated from nursing school and is an RN in pediatrics at our local hospital. She gets a kick out of the other nurses who will say..."Did you see the Mom in room #? nursing her child. I can't believe she is still nursing a child that can walk." My daughter just smiles and tells me about it later. She remembers nursing, and I think that makes her a better nurse. My memories of LLL are very dear and I am still friends with folks I met there. Not a grandmother yet, but the oldest two of our age range of 11 to 25 are married. Looking forward to passing on the LLLegacy. Thank you so much LLL, without you I don't know where we would be. [August 2005]
Shoshana Hayman, Elkana, Israel: I so much enjoyed receiving and going into the site, and connecting with people I love so much. It'll be nice to visit the site often. [August 2005]
Cheryl Westwood, Lake Havasu City, Arizona USA: Came looking for a manual for my new daugther-in-law excepting this month. No leader in our area now. I still get calls from time to time from those who know me and knew my envolvement with LLL. I started a group here in 1974. I am now a full time Realtor after staying home for 19 years. Children are all married and have children the newest due to arrive soon. All but the twin granddaughters were nursed. I am glad the mothering continues. [August 2005]
Kathleen A. Janton, Boonton, New Jersey USA: I've been retired for many years but still offer support to all who are interested. I've been especially lucky that my three daughters and one daughter- in-law have nursed or are currently nursing our seven grandchildren. Luckily all have done so well that we have some very vigorous grands that visit. My youngest is just newly delivered and creating the need for some research for her. so glad to see how much is now on the web for all to see. [August 2005]
Densie Reville RN, IBCLC, Northfield, Ohio USA: I am working as a lactation consultant in a hospital and pediatrician's office. I host a breastfeeding support group once a week and offer one on one consults to work out the problems. [July 2005]
Faith Andrews Bedford, Ivy, Virginia USA: Dear All, After retiring from active LLL work I founded the International Lactation Consultant's Association, which just celebrated its 20th Anniversary. I then became an art historian, wrote two books on American Impressionism and joined the staff of Country Living magazine where my column "Kids in the Country" appears. So, while I am no longer working with children I am still writing about them. My latest book, a collection of my columns is called "Barefoot Summers: Reflections on Home, Family and Simple Pleasures". I invite you to check out some of the reviews readers have written at Amazon. I even slipped in references to breastfeeding in some of the stories! My next book will be about the Breastfeeding Mother in Art (needless to say the fresco of the La Leche League Virgin in St. Augustine, Fla. will be included). If you have any paintings you especially want included please let me know. Regards, Faith Andrews Bedford, former New Group chairman and LLL Leader in NJ and Virginia. [July 2005]
Penny OKeefe, Filer, Idaho USA: My 2 oldest are grown
married, my youngest is in college. No grandchildren yet! Old LLLeaders never die, we just dry up! [July 2005]
Vanessa Norton, Charlotte, North Carolina USA: My boys are now 18 and 20. I was searching the web to see what I could learn about parenting my young adults. I found your site and the memories came flooding back to the simpler times. [July 2005]
Jacquie McMullen, Sequin, Texas USA: I am now a grandmother of 4 breastfed granddaughters with a 5th on the way. [July 2005]
Joyce Armstrong (nee Bartels), Buffalo, New York USA: After raising my five biological children, I have become a foster parent for Erie County and am in the process of adopting three children. I was a leader in the early 80's before my twins were born. I am looking forward to my own children have kids and passing on the tradition of starting their children off by breastfeeding. [July 2005]
Marjorie Carson, Kernersville, North Carolina USA: My children are now 27 and 29, and it has been many years since I was an active leader. However, the information I learned from LLL is still being passed on to people I meet. I am currently teaching at, and administrating at a Montessori school which my husband and I founded 24 years ago. (I first learned about Montessori education from a book in my LLL chapter's library.) During these years I have been able to answer many questions from parents who had younger children who were still nursing. These conversations frequently led to new people becoming aware of the LLL as a wonderful source of information and support. [July 2005]
Mary Jo Kurily, Warren, Michigan USA: La Leche League formed who I am as a mom. Those wonderful beginnings shaped me into the woman I always dreamed I could become. I had found a place where I could mother instinctively, FINALLY! Thank you La Leche League. My kids are 24, 23 and 19 - the two oldest have left the nest (boo hoo) and the 19 year old is still home - letting go has been the biggest challenge of my life. [July 2005]
Cathy Novak, Westerville, Ohio USA: The oldest of our four children just turned 28. I tandumed nursed the oldest and the next to oldest. They were two years apart. They are still close siblings. I became a La Leche League Leader in the Delaware/Marysville, Ohio area. Currently, I am looking for a family doctor in the Gahanna/New Albany, Ohio area. Does anyone know a good doctor in this area? We just moved back after living away for 10 years. During this time, I home schooled our last two children. [July 2005]
Karen Koevary, Tucson, Arizona USA: My children are now 25 and 19. I am a librarian in the public library. Breastfeeding established the close bond that I still share with my children. [June 2005]
Joanne Wandry, Highlands Ranch, Colorado USA: I was a leader from 1968 until 1978 here in Colorado. I still have contact with some of the women who served with me. La Leche League changed my life and made me a better mother.
I now have four children, five grandchildren, and another due in August. All five of my grandchildren were breastfed. Thank you La Leche League for helping so many become better mothers!! [June 2005]
Sandy
Moore-Furneaux, Norman Oklahoma USA: My
husband is Physics professor and I'm a doctoral student in Communication.
One son is in undergraduate school. One son is in undergraduate
school. [June 2005]
Jeanette
Lauritsen, Parker Colorado USA: What
a treat to open the alum home page and see a photo of Arizona leaders
from my years in Tucson smiling out at me. Thanks for the memories.
[June 2005]
Linda
J. Koch, Muskogee Oklahoma USA: I
have two sons and two grandchildren, both who were breastfed some.
I work at a local college in the Financial Aid Office. [June
2005]
Dolores
Hurley, Bayonne New Jersey USA: Nursing
was the next best thing to having 4 children. I bottlefed the first
2 and nursed the next 2 (who are now 25 and 27).....am still advocating
breastfeeding to the newly pregnant.....I'm glad LLL is still around.
[June 2005]
Marianne
Jackson, Las Vegas Nevada USA: I'm
a recent graduate of UNLV, BS of Public Health, still going on to
persue my dream of one day becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife. [June
2005]
Marissa
Huerta de Roldan, Aguascalientes, Mexico: I
think it´s great that this group was formed to keep in touch
with something so important to my heart.. [June
2005]
Pat
Crosby, Hurleyville New York USA: My
children are grown but I continue to be a part of the lives of women
with young children. I was an active leader from 1975 to 1982 in
New York City. It is really exciting to discover this web site and
see how far the support of breastfeeding mothers and families has
grown so bountifully. The great skills and awarenesses I developed
as a LLL leader have now expanded and led into doing healing and
health education work globally. I am excited for the success of
the current generation of breastfeeding mom's and babies. LOVE the
Starbucks campaign. I'm so glad babies have come out from under
the blanket! [June 2005]
Martha
Bardes Monroe, Pittsboro North Carolina USA: My
children are grown but I continue to be a part of the lives of women
with young children. I am a certified birth postpartum doula working
for Ornge County Head Start/Early Head Start in Chapel Hill, NC
as Health/Nutrition Coordinator. One of my favorite job duties is
to visit new mothers and help them to reach their highest potential
through nursing their little ones. [June 2005]
Ann
Lum, Kamuela, Hawaii USA: Found
myself on the phone a few days ago, giving out general assurance
to a new mom by way of her worried sister. Same issues, same concerns,
same (I was sad to find) lack of good support from her hospital
people. I'm glad I suggested they try for a web site and contact.
I retired about 1988 after some 17 years as a leader in Japan, California
and Massachusetts. [June 2005]
Mary Dubensky, Dearborn, Michigan USA: Thank you La Leche League. You have helped me so much in my life as a mother, LLL Leader, RN, grandmother, student, and now an IBCLC. [May 2005]
Mary
Ellen Adams, Great Falls Montana USA: My
first membership in LLL was in 1955/56 when the newsletter was stapled
together and printed on a memograph machine but it was a very important
newletter for me and a great help with my first of 4 babies all
breast fed. My third was a premi with RH factor problems and I was
able to keep my milk going until she came home 5 weeks later. My
2 daughters have both breast fed their three children and we consulted
LLL during their breast feeding days. I am a true advocate of breast
feeding for healthy happy babies. [May 2005]
Kathy
Baumgarten, Plattsburgh New York USA:
Sarah (a former cover baby!) is 23
and married, Klaus is nearly 19! I am in the Air National Guard
and served in Kuwait during the War in Iraq- quite a step away from
being a stay at home mom! I miss my LLL friends and have many happy
memories of my first group in Lompoc, California, and in Thatcham,
Newbury, Berkshire, England. I co-led the group here in Plattsburgh
until life just got too crazy with older teens, aging parents and
working a bit! Thanks for all the great experiences! [May
2005]
Margaret
Fassio, Pendleton Kentucky USA: Hi,
I have a friend who is now expecting and I shared LLL info with
her and it got me thinking about it all again. I am now living in
Henry Co. Ky and my children are 18, 16 and 12. The oldest graduates
in 2 weeks and she is the one I thought would never quit nursing!
I still use a lot of the LLL philosophy and am glad it continues
to be strong.
[May 2005]
Jane Cappelli, Bronx
New York USA: I
was a leader in Bronx, NY during the early seventies and still share
the philosophy. I am looking forward to the birth of my daughter's
baby and will accompany her to the meetings. Thank you LLL! [May
2005]
Jan
Birney, Milford Connecticut USA: My
five children, now all grown, were all breastfed and well-loved.
Now my daughter-in-law is nursing our first grandchild and The Womanly
Art... is right by her bedside.. [May 2005]
Ann H Sutherland,
California USA:
Since LLL often becomes a core element in our lives its great to
be able to stay connected as an alum.Having to move to 4 different
states as we raised our children, was stressful but LLL was there
with an instant connection each time. Thanks for the memories...
[May 2005]
Joanne Fox,
Ohio USA:
My children: 2 married 1 more soon to be married and 2 at home yet.
I recently was talking to a young mom, a friend of my daughter's
who has no one to talk to, who supports her way of child raising,
only people who make her question her mothering. I was trying to
let her know that she is not alone and that strong-willed children
are a challenge. She reminded me of how wonderful LLL was for me
and my children. Love to all who are still there helping! [May
2005]
Erin Ely,
Oregon USA:
I am a retired leader. After being a stay-at-home mom and professional
volunteer for the past 15 years, I am starting a new business. I
was in the grocery store the other day and I ran into one of my
co-leaders from when I was an active leader. Well, it just brought
back some many memories for me and it made me what to see what LLL
was up to these days. I have been looking at the website and am
planning on having an exhibit at the international conference this
year for my new business. My parenting ideas were greatly influenced
by my participation in LLL. Out of anything I have done, LLL has
had the greatest influence in my lifestyle choices for myself and
my family. I am so greatful that I was part of the organization
for so long. I think I was an active leader for about 6 or 7 years.
I had so much trouble nursing with my first child and without LLL
I never would have made it. While everyone around me was telling
me to give it up, my leader supported me throurh weeks and weeks
of daily calls and her support was what made all the difference
in my success as a breastfeeding mom. Thanks to LLL for all their
great work and inspiration and help for mothers around the world
to have successful breastfeeing relationships.[May
2005]
Evie Miller,
Nebraska USA:
First time visit - am excited!!! It has been 35 years since I first
was "in touch" with LaLeche League - now grandmother of
9 - all breastfed!!! Praise God!!!! [May 2005]
