Bio

Since 1994, I have helped mothers as a doula, a certified lactation educator, a registered nurse and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). In 2004, baby beloved was born and I've since been incredibly inspired by the women I’ve had the privilege to work with (over 13,000 and counting!). I work in the hospital, in six different pediatric offices, and in private practice providing home visits, TeleHealth consults, and prenatal classes. After 26 years, I'm still in awe of the families I work with; the strength and vulnerability they show inspires me every day to be better at helping them meet their goals.

Lived experiences

My daughter and I did not get the best start with breastfeeding. I experienced just about every challenge out there (engorgement, needing to supplement with formula, sore/cracked nipples, plugged ducts, mastitis!). ​ At four months, she and I finally got the hang of it and I actually enjoyed breastfeeding. I was so thankful that I got to the other side of that mountain where breastfeeding became something I looked forward to. But man, I totally understood why women stop breastfeeding! My mom did not breastfeed me and it has become my mission since having my daughter to not let breastfeeding wisdom fall by the wayside.

Location

335 Bridge Street #14000 Grand Rapids Michigan 49504

Languages

English

Insurance

No

HSA/FSA

Yes

Home visits

Yes

Lactation Expertise

Breast augmentation or reduction

Bottle refusal

Chestfeeding

Extended breastfeeding

Families of Color

Inverted and flat nipples

Latch issues

Low milk supply

Multiples

Oversupply

Postpartum depression

Preemies

Pumping

Relactation

Returning to work

Teens

Tongue tie

WIC