Iris, 27, lives in Biloxi, Mississippi with her husband, Jack, and 8-month-old daughter, Sienna. As a first-time mom, her breastfeeding journey started with utter fear, and has happily resulted in pure joy, confidence and a whole lot of extra milk. She explains, “In the hospital after delivery, I was so inexperienced and nervous, I wouldn’t breastfeed without a nurse by my side.” Within two months, Iris had so much success breastfeeding and pumping, she couldn’t keep up with storing over 1000 ounces. Becoming a Milk Donor After Sienna’s pediatrician suggested milk donation, Iris called Mothers’ Milk Bank of North Texas and was encouraged to learn about the easy approval process and overnight shipping program. She says, “After an interview and blood test, I received milk donor bags, shipping supplies and instructions. Everything has been convenient and not a hindrance to my routine.”
Breastfeeding Advice for Other Moms Iris urges other moms to persevere if they experience any breastfeeding roadblocks. She reiterates, “You are equipped to feed your baby and any problems will pass. Keep trying.”
Future Plans Tomorrow, Iris starts full-time nursing school at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. “Although I have a Bachelor’s Degree”, she explains, “I have decided to go back to school.” Sadly, Iris had a miscarriage before she became pregnant with Sienna. She acknowledges, “I had such caring emotional support from my healthcare providers that it really influenced me to pursue nursing. I want to help others like they helped me.” With the support of her family and plenty of milk in her new deep freezer, Iris will pump at school and plans to continue to donate. She says, “Breastfeeding and donating my milk has been such a fulfilling experience, I would definitely re-do it all over again.” For more information about milk donation, please click here.