I would like to recognize Tamara Wescott for her outstanding service to her patients and commitment to breastfeeding. As a pediatrician, I frequently rely on the support and education from the lactation experts. Breastfeeding is challenging for most mothers. The lactation support and education at Swedish is outstanding. I have known Tamara for 3 years. I am always amazed at her responsiveness to me and my concerns. Her main objective is promoting breastfeeding, but I feel that she does so much more for the families. She is kind and sensitive to the family's situation and abilities. She looks beyond just breastfeeding to help support the parents. There have been many times when I have reached out to Tamara for help with a mother with breastfeeding problems. Not only does Tamara help me on the phone, but she follows up with the family in person or by phone. I love to see this passion in her field. This sincere interest in breastfeeding and the welfare of the family is extraordinary and I see it in her work. Tamara always has a positive attitude and is a pleasure to work with.
A patient of mine was born with many anomalies. There was a question about the infant's future and the parents were not prepared. Genetics and specialists came in to educate the parents about the evaluation of the congenital malformations. The parents were taken back with the many problems that seemed to be in their future. The mother expressed later to me that the team of physicians did not have a good outlook and she felt overwhelmed. Tamara was asked to help with breastfeeding. Tamara was able to get the infant to latch and breastfeed effectively. However, the mom told me that Tamara helped in other important ways. Tamara sat with the family and listened to their concerns. Tamara helped Mom and Dad understand that although there would be surgeries and many doctor's visits, that this child was a gift to them. Mom expressed to me later that Tamara helped her get through the emotional struggle of having an infant with special needs. I tell this story because it meant so much to Mom to have a support and friend at this time. The infant is now a year old and doing amazing.