That's the message to mothers at the launch of World Breastfeeding Week 2008 in Peel, echoing the one delivered to athletes who competed in this year's Olympic Games.
New mothers in Peel and their families will meet at Mississauga Civic Centre's Great Hall on Saturday at 9 a.m. to support each other as they strive for the gold standard of infant feeding: exclusive breastfeeding for six months.
"For a breastfeeding mother, getting a good start is essential," said Bev Bryant, Peel Region's child health manager. "This includes getting help from the hospital, family and friends, health-care providers and the community."
Special guest and renowned Canadian hockey player Justine Blainey will talk about her experiences and the importance of having a 'team' of support for breastfeeding mothers. Blainey gained national recognition when she fought and won the right to compete with boys on the ice. Today, she is a chiropractor and volunteer with Peel's Breastfeeding Companions program.
"Belief in oneself is a key element to success for both an athlete and a mother," said Blainey. "Peel Public Health's breastfeeding services provide information and support, which assures moms they have what it takes to make breastfeeding successful."
With its theme of 'Mother Support: Going for the Gold,' the event will feature 'superhero games' for infants, a high-energy workout led by Andrea Page, founder of FITMOM Canada, and the annual latch-on challenge taking place at 10:45 a.m.
World Breastfeeding Week is part of a global campaign to increase awareness and support of breastfeeding. Peel supports its recommendation that babies be breastfed exclusively for six months.
Visit www.BreasfeedingInPeel.ca for information.
jslack@mississauga.net
