Editor's Note: Kathleen's story originally ran in our monthly E-Newsletter. Thanks for reading it the first or second time here on our blog!
Kathleen Kanoff
Edmond, OK
I am an older first time mother and my son is now 18 months-old. Breastfeeding did not come easy to us in the beginning. It was very painful for me and I became stressed, making my milk supply dwindle.
I pumped as much and often as I could. I worked closely with a lactation consultant and eventually it became easier. I also spoke with a breastfeeding hotline, which is where I learned about milk banking. After researching, I came across the Mothers’ Milk Bank of North Texas and knew that I wanted to give as much as I could to save a baby’s life, even if I could only give a small amount.
I regard breastfeeding my son and donating milk two of the most rewarding and significant things I have ever done in my life. I feel that sharing my son’s milk is the first philanthropic thing he and I did together. I cannot wait to tell him the story about his contribution and to teach him the value of giving to others.
Donating to the Mothers’ Milk Bank of North Texas motivated me to keep my supply up, even on the days I felt lazy or that my supply could be diminished from apathy. I was able to donate 239 ounces. Being a part of something so great helped to spur us on through the hard times.