I grew up in a Jamaican family and saw breastfeeding as a normal thing. I also remember seeing my parents work a lot so my grandmothers kept us. So, I’m pretty sure corn meal porridge and baby formula was in the mix too for my younger siblings, but the foundation of breastmilk was set for the first few months.
As a new mom, I found that feeding my baby has been one of the most challenging things I’ve had to face. It’s a round the clock daily thing! He Just turned one in June and is running everywhere with something always in his hand. He thinks that his food has to look like ravioli, French fries, or blueberry pancakes (hold the syrup), and taste like sweet potato. And did I mention he only has two teeth at the bottom, so his chewing game isn’t quite on point. I go from there and make it happen every day. So its constant brain power, recipes to incorporate proper nutrition so he won’t look like the gangly Charlie from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
I chose to breastfeed my son from the time he was born, until now. My goal was 6 months until I got back into the workforce, but since it didn’t happen that way, we are still breastfeeding a few times a day, and I am still pumping while he is gone at daycare. That way he can still get the nutrition from the milk (since I chose not to give him cows milk). Breastfeeding my son has been one of the best decisions I have made. Breastfeeding has had its ups and downs for me, like perhaps any new mother and came with lots of questions lots of concerns about if he’s getting enough, am I making enough, or when should I stop. But in the end, I feel good about the decision I made. And that’s what counts!
Our First Post is dedicated this to all of the mothers who want to best for our children and families. Let’s support each other with love, kindness and compassion.
About Natalie
Natalie Collymore was born in the Netherlands to two Jamaican parents and had a humble upbringing in New York City. She served in the Army for 4 years as a healthcare specialist and is a now a proud veteran. After her military time was served, Natalie earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Learning and Development at Georgia State University in Atlanta, Georgia. She chose to remain in the Atlanta area and now calls it home. Natalie has one son who keeps her busy. Her journey through pregnancy and motherhood has led her to become passionate about advocating for improving the outcomes of pregnant women, mothers and babies, helping to keep them healthy safe and alive. Natalie is a vigilant member of Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere and is the President of Sankofa Cultural Coalition.