I'm a first-time mom of a beautiful six-month-old baby girl, and, like most other mothers - first-timers or not-, my breastfeeding journey has exceeded both my highest and my lowest expectations: it has been life-altering. Breastfeeding completely changed the way I view myself and the world and I could easily talk about it for hours on end. Instead, I decided to write my story down to keep it very specific.

Thank you to the mothers but especially to the Leaders of the Parow LLLSA WhatsApp support group for always being on top of responses. I will always remember your kindness and support through difficult times while being there for all the other mothers, and still finding the time to check in privately with me if something was wrong. May you be rewarded abundantly for everything you do for everyone.

Like many mothers, I was incredibly excited to begin my breastfeeding journey after my baby was born. Breastfeeding felt like such a natural and beautiful experience—I never imagined that anything could go wrong.

My first full-blown mastitis didn’t happen as a brand-new mother. It came with my third child – and not even in the early months. I woke up one morning with my breast swollen, an aching body, fever, and excruciating pain while breastfeeding.

This is the story of my breastfeeding journey—a journey that started in confusion and pain, but thankfully led me to healing and joy. I share it with the hope that it might spare another mom the trauma I went through the first time around, and offer encouragement that things can be different.

The theme for World Breastfeeding Week 2022 is "Step Up for Breastfeeding. Educate and Support.". Come celebrate with us!