More than a Midwife

This past weekend Weston and I went to our breastfeeding group. Brenda, my midwife, was there and was making a last appearance so to speak. She is moving and while I'm sure she will be back from time to time to visit, it was a special and sad day at the same time. The meeting went so well. We had experienced nursers and future nursing mothers. I think it made her feel good to know that we will continue to educate moms and keep the group going.

In thinking about saying goodbye to her I was emotional about it. Mrs. Brenda has had such an impact on my life and who I am as a mother. I've shared before how by going to the breastfeeding group it opened my eyes to so much more. When I began to realize that I had more choices it started me to think about all kinds of aspects in my children. (What I feed them, vaccines, nutrition, etc.) I fully believe because of her willingness to serve our community, I was able to pump for 9 1/2 months for Addison and would not have done that without the knowledge and support she gave. I am sure that I would have just gone with the flow when it came to my birth choices with Addison and without her I never would have dreamed of giving birth at home.

Mrs. Brenda has been such a blessing to this community. I know that she could make more money doing other things, but she chooses to give women and babies the best head start in life. She headed up the breastfeeding group completely free in her own home for a long time. Also making home and hospital visits to moms when they needed help without asking anything in return. She spends a lot of her time continuing to research and sharing with all us via facebook. In the past I know of people that have been offended by her bluntness and continuing to stand up for things she believed in. I've tried to tell a few that she may come across strong because she is a small voice in a large area and she is passionate. Mrs. Brenda is the kind of woman that if something considered "safe" and may be fine for 99 out of 100 babies...she will speak up for that 1 that was harmed. Her intent is not to make parents feel guilty about decisions they have already made, but to encourage future mothers or mothers that haven't made those choices yet to be informed. Everything she shares are facts not opinions. I'm thankful that she has shared so much because there is no one else in my life nearly as informed that I trust as much when asking for advice in these types of areas.

For me Personally, she has been more than a doula, midwife, and lactation consultant. She has been a mentor and a friend. I am so thankful that God brought me to this area before having kids. I told Nathan that I'm glad I'm done birthing children or else we would have to make some arrangements because I can't imagine giving birth without her since she has been there for both Addison and Weston! So thank you Mrs. Brenda! Thank you for all that you do and have done for me and my babies. You will be missed greatly and will always hold a special place in my heart!!