Portrait of a Tender (#6) - Allyson - Lactation Consultant & Clinical Instructor

For 36 years Allyson has worked  as a nurse helping new mothers and their babies.  She knew since high school that she wanted to be a nurse and was most attracted to the wellness aspect of  the field. She started on labor and delivery right out of school, then moved to postpartum care and found her passion there, helping moms learn to breastfeed their babies.  Allyson became an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant 25 years ago.  "Some things about breastfeeding have changed over the years, but the need to love and support mothers on their journey has not."

Allyson is finishing out her career by teaching the next generation.  She began as a clinical instructor for the Nursing School at UVA about three years ago.  "I enjoy sharing my love for the amazing process of birth with my students.  I really want them to understand how incredible the female body is, that it is capable of growing, birthing, feeding and nurturing a tiny human being."

The Covid pandemic changed many aspects of care in the hospital.  "Everyone was so fearful. Family support disappeared. Mothers were afraid to break isolation to get breastfeeding help.  My colleagues and I were heartbroken to not be able to help families in the way we knew they needed. Covid made us all afraid of being with others."  Although life in the hospital has yet to return to pre-pandemic normalcy,  Allyson is relieved that they are able to offer their full services again and continue helping mothers and babies get to know one another.

#LoveConnectTend 

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