Ava was facing a huge obstacle—again.
Five years ago, complications while breastfeeding her firstborn had filled her days with worry and heartache. With hope in her heart for her second child, she believed that her previous experience and the wisdom she had since gathered would guide her to a more fulfilling outcome. Yet, on the day her baby was born, she found herself in a hospital bed, desperately trying to nurse her newborn with little success. Each cry from her hungry baby deepened her sense of desperation, and the support offered by the hospital staff only seemed to go so far. But luckily, Ava knew exactly who to call.
Back in 2019, Ava had walked through our purple doors looking for prenatal support upon learning she was pregnant. A Woman’s Concern met her with compassion and offered that support, providing her with a medical confirmation and material assistance. After the birth of her first baby, Ava struggled with breastfeeding—a painful chapter marked by a rough delivery and overwhelming stress that left her able to nurse for only one month. When news of her second pregnancy arrived, she recalled the caring hands that had once guided her and reached out to us again.
All she wanted was to have this connection with her newborn and be able to feed her baby.
In the five years between her first and second pregnancies, AWC developed several new health and safety classes. Ava jumped right in. She was active in class, asking questions, and telling other moms about her story.
In her classes, Ava learned that breastfeeding has many benefits. For most babies, breastfeeding is an amazing option as it supplies key nutrition needed for growth and development. It also provides antibodies for the baby to fight off infection and develop a healthy immune system, and supports maternal health by reducing postpartum risks. Breastfeeding and responsive caregiving can help strengthen the bond between mother and child.
During her classes, Ava would repeatedly say to Heidi, one of AWC’s RNs and lactation consultants, “I wish I knew this the first time.” After learning more about the benefits of breastfeeding and different methods, Ava felt that for this baby, she had the knowledge and support system to try breastfeeding once more.
Yet on the day of her delivery, Ava found herself yet again having trouble breastfeeding her baby. She felt the weight of not being able to breastfeed — the loss of something she felt would be significant for both her and her baby. The hospital staff offered lactation support, but it was not working. Feeling so defeated and alone, she knew who she could call for help. Heidi answered the phone, and they planned to have an in-person consultation that week.
Ava walked into AWC’s office on a Thursday afternoon. As soon as the door shut to the medical room, Ava slumped over onto Heidi’s shoulder in a puddle of tears. Through sobs and while holding her newborn baby, she expressed how defeated she felt in her struggle to breastfeed. All she wanted was to have this connection with her newborn and be able to feed her baby. Heidi consoled her and told her that she was not alone. Every woman and every baby is different. They would develop a plan specifically for them so that Ava could breastfeed her beautiful newborn baby.
After the consultation, Ava left the office with not just a plan, but with a renewed smile and a heart filled with hope. Over the next days, following the guidance and support of Heidi, the process of breastfeeding began to feel more natural—each feeding a quiet, tender chapter in the growing love story between Ava and her baby. A few days later, when Heidi called to follow up, Ava’s excitement soared as she shared the success of a consistent breastfeeding routine. For the next two months, this journey blossomed into a celebration of motherly love and resilience.
As Ava’s story continues, AWC remains by her side, ready to offer warmth, encouragement, and any future support that her evolving story might require.
You Can Make a Difference
We are so grateful that you’re here and that you care! There are SO MANY ways to join us in our mission to build a community where families are strong and Life is cherished.
