During my entire pregnancy, I spent countless hours researching breastfeeding because it was incredibly important to me. When I found out my baby was breech, I became discouraged, upset, and scared. I knew a C-section was likely, and I also knew how much harder that could make breastfeeding and milk supply.

I underwent an attempted ECV in hopes of avoiding surgery, but it failed. My discouragement grew—until I had the chance to speak with Kat. She immediately understood how important breastfeeding was to me. When I told her I would probably need to schedule a C-section, she shared which day she would be working and promised that I would be her personal mission. She told me, with complete confidence, that she would get my baby to latch in the OR. Her reassurance meant the world to me.

I followed her advice and scheduled my C-section for the day she worked. When I went into labor earlier than expected on a Sunday, my heart sank knowing she might not be there. I cannot describe the relief I felt when I walked into the birth center and saw her sitting at the desk. My nerves immediately eased.

My birth ended up being very traumatic. The anesthesiologist attempted my spinal 19 times, and it never worked. I had to be put completely under. I was devastated knowing I would miss my own daughter’s birth. When I woke up, all I wanted was to begin bonding with my baby—especially through breastfeeding.

Kat was instantly there. She brought my daughter right to me and helped her latch immediately. Despite not working the next couple of days, she still went above and beyond—she arranged for one of her lactation consultant colleagues to check on me and make sure I was supported.

Kat exceeded every expectation, time after time, during the most important and vulnerable moments of my life. Because of her dedication, compassion, and unwavering support, I was able to start my breastfeeding journey despite every obstacle. I will be forever grateful for everything she did for my daughter and me.