Milk of human kindness
“We don't just get to witness the wonder of the early days of a human life but the birth of a mother.”
These are the sentiments of Katy Hunt, Lactation Consultant at the Royal Hospital for Women.
It is midwives like Katy who are the reason our District remains a beacon of excellence when it comes to teaching new mothers how to breastfeed.
Midwives play an essential role, supporting new mothers by sharing their wisdom, time and guidance. They work day and night to ensure newborn bellies are filled with the benefits of breastmilk.
“It’s a privilege to be part of such an exciting time in a woman's life,” Ms Hunt said.
She finds it particularly satisfying to support a woman who is struggling with feeding and help her nurture her child.
To celebrate Breastfeeding Awareness Week (1 to 7 August) a series of events took place across The Royal, St George and Sutherland hospitals.
The Royal Hospital for Women hosted a breast knitting competition. Knitted creations will go on to be used as teaching aids for staff and students. The event was judged by a breastfeeding mother, and the lucky winner took home a $100 Bras & Things gift voucher.
At Sutherland Hospital, a fun breastfeeding themed bake sale was held in the hospital’s atrium alongside an educational display. Cakes of all shapes and cup sizes were created by incredibly talented staff.
Simone Payn, Acting Midwifery and Nursing Manager, Women’s and Children’s Health, Sutherland Hospital said everyone had a great time.
“It seems our staff are not only great midwives, nurses and lactation specialists, but they are great at making breast-shaped cakes also,” Ms Payn said.
Over 300 bras were donated from St George Hospital staff and surrounding communities and hung across the stairwell and multiple levels of the hospital’s atrium as a creative artwork.
At the end of the week, the hospital donated the bras to women experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or doing it tough. A shipment was also sent to Fiji to support women in need.
Ange Karooz, General Manager, St George Hospital said the midwifery team was overwhelmed by the response.
“Collecting and displaying these bras has been a wonderful team-building experience for the staff at St George Hospital,” Ms Karooz said.
“Our staff have a great reputation for giving back to our broader community in as many ways as we can. In this instance, not only highlighting the importance of breastfeeding for new mothers, but delivering important undergarments to women who may not have the opportunity to obtain them for themselves.”
