Statistics show that babies in the NICU drink between 8oz and 12oz of breastmilk per day. Today my family donated 111 (4oz) bags of breastmilk totaling 444oz to the Austin Mothers Milk Bank. Our donation can help to feed babies in the NICU for more than a month. Donor milk helps to save lives. To know that my family is saving the life of another is a blessing. Every year over 60,000 babies are born premature.
As a black father I am grateful for the opportunity to educate other fathers on the roles they play in support of breastfeeding. Many fathers may experience significant challenges, like feeling excluded, inadequate, and helpless. Breastfeeding is known to adversely affect various aspects of a father’s life, including the relationship with the partner and the perception that breastfeeding limits time available for father–infant bonding.
I personally feel the father’s role includes being a team player and a positive motivator. I have learned to be the facilitator and supporter of my wife. I may not produce the milk but I have a very important role in the process. I recognize hunger cues, can calm the infant before feeding, and will burp and change diapers after feeding. I feel blessed to know that my role contributes to such a vital cause.
