Local Hospital Observes National Breastfeeding Month with an August 17 Event
About three years ago, Christus Mother Francis Hospital in Sulphur Springs implemented the “Texas Ten-Step Program” which advocates education and support for moms of newborns who are interested in breastfeeding their babies. The program puts goals in place which help moms be successful in giving their babies the best start to a healthy life. From this program, a local support group got started. BIBS, or Breastfeeding is Best Support is now more than two years old and is thriving in Hopkins County. BIBS is open to pregnant women, new moms and mothers who have a success story to tell about the benefits of breastfeeding. The support group now has more than 200 followers on it’s Facebook page, and holds monthly meetings in the hospital’s Medical Plaza.
Christie Couch is an RN as well as a Lactation Consultant in the Birth Center. Her job is to talk with moms of newborns who intend to breastfeed, offering guidance during their hospital stay and resources once they return to home.
Sandra Cerda works for the WIC program, which offers nutritional help to households with women, infants and children. Sandra serves as a breastfeeding counselor for WIC clients.
Alicia Ansley is a local mom who is a member of BIBS. During her two pregnancies, Alicia has taken advantage of the lactation consultation that the support group offers. Now she is working on goals of her own, including becoming certified as a lactation counselor and a midwife. She enjoys the fellowship of other moms who attend the monthly BIBS meetings, and has become a friend and role model for some of those new to breastfeeding.
You will meet these women and others at the National Breastfeeding Month observance planned on the afternoon of August 17, 2018. It will offer information and resources that enhance what Christus Mother Francis Hospital’s Birth Center already offers to Hopkins County families. Vendors will feature local midwife and doula services, childcare, homeschooling, fitness and continuing education as well as fun, prizes and food. It will be held from 1-4pm in the Medical Plaza building and is free of charge to attend. For more information, contact Christie Couch at 903-439-4091 or Sandra Cerda at 903-885-2813.
