You see, I did something that I often doubted that I could do.
I made it six months with exclusively giving Richie breastmilk (instead of formula) by pumping. Richie never really took to breastfeeding, but I felt like giving him breastmilk was the best thing that I could do for him as his mother.
But it has been hard. Inconvenient. Painful. Time consuming. Bloody. It is one of the most difficult things I have ever done.
There were (dramatic) times when I thought that maybe death was preferable to pumping one more time. (These times only happened when I was at my most frustrated/sick/exhausted.)
I have shed many tears over this.
But I did it. I made a goal when we took Richie home from the hospital that I would give him at least six months of exclusive breastmilk--even if he never took to breastfeeding. Which, as I mentioned, he didn't.
I would say that I deserve a prize, but I think I already have one.
3 comments:
Way to go! Pumping is a pain (as I sit here pumping!) I can't imagine doing it for every feeding. You are a champ!
I am in awe by you Karen.
When Richie reads this someday, he will love you even more.
What a selfless thing to do for Rich! It is so hard to do that and you have done it for 6 months! It is the best thing you can do for him and he will have a better/healthier start in life because of you. Isn't it incredible what you are willing to do for your child? Anything! Painful, time-consuming, inconvenient, painful, discouraging at times, painful...ha, ha! But it was what was best for your child even though it was not the easiest solution for you. That's what parents have to do and WANT to do for their children.
I love you and I am so thankful that you have this wonderful opportunity to be a mom! It's the best! Isn't it?!
I love the photo of your lil Rich man! What a cutie!
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