My journey has been long, hard, testing & beautiful all in one! The trials I have faced as a Māmā have been overwhelming but rewarding at the same time. I have cried many nights in pain & frustration but have also cried with tears of joy & happiness while I get through the valley our mama can face. I am first generation breastfeeder, so even in the beginning my journey was hard. It was the one thing my whanau could not help me with, however I had many friends who breastfed & they were my support. I researched & made it my mission to breastfeed my babies – although I faced many challenges with latching, mastitis etc., I persevered through the first few weeks & it got easier & easier. I enjoyed it so much, I didn’t want to stop. I was able to do a breastfeeding course through Te Puawaitanga Ki Ōtautahi Trust & I was sold! Supporting Māmā on their journey was something I loved doing & still continue to do today. I am currently still breastfeeding baby number 5 & love being able to support out Māmā in our community with their breastfeeding journey.
