I gave birth to my first born recently and I planned on breastfeeding as I know it to be the best form of nutrition for my newborn. I was visited by Noela first thing in the morning and was offered assistance. My newborn took to breastfeeding so easily and I was quick to tell Noela that it was "easier than I thought." She still offered her assistance and came to visit my hospital room daily during my stay at the hospital. Soon my husband, our newborn, and I were home enjoying learning to care for our beautiful baby boy. Two weeks after being home I began experiencing pain while nursing and soon after I was in tears and dreading the 2hr mark when my son was hungry and showing signs of wanting to feed. I would start crying as soon as I would position my son to start to nurse. It became very painful for me and my husband would offer to go and buy formula so that my pain would stop. I would get very upset at the idea of having to supplement with formula and I was feeling like a failure for even contemplating at the idea of formula. I remember Noela's words before I left the hospital: "I will be available to help you even after you go home."
I called the hospital and within minutes I was at the hospital speaking to Noela. I left my meeting with Noela in tears. I cried as she guided me and soon I was nursing with no pain.I could not believe it, I was nursing with minor discomfort and no pain. I cried and thanked her because she had not just given me hope, she is the reason I am still exclusively, happily breastfeeding my son who is now 11 months!Because of the help I received from Noela, I have given my son the best chance in life by simply offering my "liquid gold." I hugged her so tightly before I left because she had answered all my questions and showed me that with minor changes to my nursing positions, I would be able to finally enjoy bonding with my child instead of dripping tears on his body as he nursed. This is a very emotional thank you for Noela. I consider Noela one of my many blessings in life.