CVPH Big Latch On hailed as success

The Press-Republican, Plattsburgh, N.Y.
·2 min read

May 4—PLATTSBURGH — Dozens of mothers and their families in the North Country received a great deal of support in their mission to promote and normalize breastfeeding at the annual Big Latch On hosted by The University of Vermont Health Network — Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital's Alice T. Miner Women and Children's Center.

The event held last month drew 30 moms and nearly 100 people from the community overall. It was a chance for moms to meet up and share their experiences and stories in a supportive environment.

"It is a great community event, and it is amazing to see everyone pull together for our families," Jocelyn Fittin, BSN, RN, IBCLC, a Lactation Consultant with the WCC, says.

"It is incredibly important to raise awareness and to help normalize breastfeeding within the community. Breastfeeding is a healthy start for the baby and mother. It reduces the risk of health complications for both and creates a special bond for the baby and mom."

In addition to the latch-on moment for mothers and their young children, they were able to get free pictures of their little ones courtesy of Lauren Grugle from Life to Lens Photography. Each mom received a goodie bag upon registration and free lunch from Tammy's Lunchbox courtesy of The Foundation of CVPH. Texas Roadhouse provided kids meal coupons. StoneWorks Massage & Skincare donated the door prize, and the Clinton County Health Department provided prizes for the oldest and youngest nurslings.

Fittin says she is grateful for everyone who participated.

Each year, breastfeeding women across the globe come together to nurse their child for one full minute at an established time. The event originated in New Zealand and was started by the Women's Health Action in 2005 as part of World Breastfeeding Week.

The Plattsburgh Big Latch On is held annually as part of this world-wide effort.

Women can receive support from the CVPH Lactation Clinic all year in a variety of ways: — Lactation Clinic is open Monday — Friday, 7 am to 3:30 pm. — Prenatal Breastfeeding Class: Second Thursday of the Month from 6 to 8 pm. — Nature's Way Baby Café: Second and Fourth Thursday of the month from 10 am to 12 pm at the Child Care Coordinating Council, 194 US Oval. — Returning to work & Breastfeeding Class: Individual appointments available.

Anyone interested can call 518-562-7142 to sign up for the prenatal breastfeeding class or make an appointment for the returning to work and breastfeeding class.