This is not an ordinary breastfeeding book. Breastfeeding relationships are dynamic and none the same. They are, like people, all unique. My biggest dream was to be a midwife, having babies and breastfeeding them. Falling pregnant and birthing a baby boy was one of the highlights of my life. Breastfeeding came easily and naturally with no obstacles or hiccups. I expected that was what happened to passionate midwives! I reached my breastfeeding goals one after the other. Lesson learned: it is possible to achieve breastfeeding goals AND enjoy it!
Fast forward a few years, and I was pregnant again! I can do this! Doubt never crossed my mind. Ready for a second breastfeeding journey with passion and ease? Holding my beautiful baby girl on my chest was fulfilling my dreams, a midwife with a pigeon pair. Unfortunately, this feeling did not last long. She was taken to the neonatal ICU because of her low blood sugar. After this, we struggled to latch, and I was not prepared for this, and this started the most horrendous time of my life. Frustrated with the outcome and a continuous journey of obstacles, I did not even reach my first breastfeeding goal. Guilt became my second name. Looking back at this journey, I think I have all the answers! What started off as one of the worst times in my life turned out to be one of the best relationships I could have hoped for. I actually thank my beautiful daughter (circumstances), for my passion and calling in life. I realize that my passion and calling is to help mothers, empower them with the knowledge to overcome the obstacles I faced, and encourage them with the right advice and support.
While on our first holiday in my favorite place Inhambane (Mozambique), the idea to write a book was birthed. I started writing, but life happens. Lynda, one of my best friends, and I developed the South African Certified Lactation Consultant Course, which Wits University now accredits, and this book idea was shelved. When this present opportunity knocked on my door, I believed God’s timing was perfect. I was ready and equipped with the knowledge and passion for empowering others to reach their breastfeeding goals.
Knowledge is most meaningful when shared with others.
HETTIE GROVÉ –
REGISTERED NURSE, REGISTERED MIDWIFE, REGISTERED COMMUNITY NURSE, BCUR EDUCATION AND ADMINISTRATION, ADVANCED MIDWIFE, INTERNATIONAL BOARD CERTIFIED LACTATION CONSULTANT (IBCLC), SA CERTIFIED PERINATAL EDUCATOR (SACPE), SA CERTIFIED LACTATION CONSULTANT (SACLC), SACLC COURSE DEVELOPER, GOLD MIDWIFERY ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBER. RUNNING A PRIVATE PRACTICE IN SPRINGS SINCE APRIL 1997. HONORARY LECTURER AT WITS UNIVERSITY.
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