Moms Need Continued Support

I was thrilled to learn that the San Antonio Community Hospital in Upland was recognized for its efforts to provide high-quality care for mothers who have made the decision to breast-feed their children. (Re: Moms get support,” Aug. 25.)

I took advantage of the Healthy Beginnings program for all three of my beautiful and healthy children, now ages 5, 3 and 2. When my husband and I first brought my eldest daughter home from the hospital in September 2003, we knew we had a feeding challenge ahead. My daughter, more interested in sleeping at the breast, was unable to latch properly and feed at the hospital. She continued this same pattern at home and added spitting up any milk she was able to take in. With only two to three hours of quality sleep those first few days of trying to get my daughter fed, I frantically headed over to the Healthy Beginnings clinic.

From the moment I walked into the clinic, I felt supported immediately. I had been crying from exhaustion and extreme physical pain. The nurses, who undoubtedly have seen this scenario time and time again, quickly got me situated and comforted. It brings tears to my eyes now remembering the relief I felt of not being the only one going through this very stressful time. With the confidence I gained visiting the clinic, I was able to successfully breast-feed my daughter for more than eight months.

I will always be grateful to the Healthy Beginnings staff for the love and care they provided me and my babies over the years.

Thank you and wishing the program continued success in the future!

IRIS M. PATRONITE, Upland

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