05/16/2022
My thoughts from working on the ground during the formula shortage:
It's hard to believe that in 2022, USA parents are insecure about formula being available to feed their babies. The news, social media, and the supermarket shelves have triggered panic among parents. This is a horrible feeling that no parent should ever have to go through.
Crisis can bring out the worst in people, but also bring out the best. Over the past few weeks I've been overwhelmed by the polarized discussions on the topic, especially when it comes to breastfeeding/ breast milk fitting into the equation.
I feel uniquely situated in that being both an ibclc and an ot who works on infant feeding, my patient population really spans the gamut.
I work with exclusively breastfeeding/pumping parents AND parents who need assistance bottle feeding formula from day one. Respect for parent choices and sensitivity to the complicating factors in making feeding choices is at the foundation of my work.
Right now the parents who are feeling like they are in crisis mode don't need to see posts and headlines feeding into the fear, they need to see support, safe solution options, and reassurance that they are going to be able to feed their baby and that this is temporary.
I want to share some of the amazing things that I've experienced this past week.
The community has come out together to create ways to help parents locate formula via various platforms. I've been involved in helping my community have a central drop off location for formula that anyone can access free of charge. People from all stages of life are alerting parent groups when they find formula on the shelves of the store.
I am amazed at the number of women who have come forward to relactate and donate their pumped milk, set up milk sharing programs, and even eliminate certain foods from their diet to pump for babies with allergies.
These acts of kindness, community, and support are what's going to get us through this next little while.
Anyone who has trouble accessing food to feed their baby, contact me and I will help you. Please do not make your own homemade formula. There are lots of resources and lots of help here for you.
