When Jessica Thompson delivered her stillborn son, Leo, at just 20 weeks into her pregnancy, she faced an unexpected challenge: her body began to produce milk. Although her healthcare provider suggested she bind her breasts to inhibit lactation, Jessica chose to follow a different path. “I realized I had this milk, and I needed to find a meaningful way to use it,” she shared with Today Parents.
Determined to donate her milk, Jessica faced a lack of understanding from her workplace. When she requested breaks to pump, she was told, “Your baby is gone.” “It shouldn’t matter that I don’t have a baby in my arms. I was still a lactating mother with needs,” she explained.
There is an alarming amount of stigma surrounding mothers who experience pregnancy loss. Society often seems to pressure grieving parents to move on, leaving little room for the necessary grieving process. This notion is exemplified by the insensitive remarks made by Jessica’s employer. If a mother is still producing milk, shouldn’t she have the autonomy to decide how to utilize it?
Jessica is actively advocating for changes to the Break Time for Nursing Mothers law, which currently excludes bereaved and surrogate mothers. She aims to broaden the language to ensure all lactating mothers, regardless of their circumstances, are included. Over an eight-month period, her efforts yielded an outstanding 92 gallons of breast milk, providing nourishment for over 30,000 infants in need. This incredible act not only honors her son but also aids other families, demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of grief.
Jessica’s story has resonated with many, prompting an outpouring of support and shared experiences. Comments flooded in when Today Parents shared her journey on social media. One mother recounted, “I lost my daughter at 36 weeks but found purpose in pumping. It helped heal my heart, knowing I was providing for babies in need.” Another shared, “My son was born at 24 weeks and passed away shortly after. Donating my milk helped me navigate through my sorrow.”
In the U.S., approximately 25,000 babies are stillborn each year. This statistic highlights the significant number of families grappling with loss and the physical realities faced by mothers post-pregnancy. The bravery exhibited by mothers who continue to lactate and donate milk is commendable, and they deserve the same protections as any other nursing mother. Jessica is now working with Mothers Milk Bank Northeast and aspires to become a breastfeeding consultant.
“Family and friends often hesitated to mention Leo’s name, not realizing how important that acknowledgment was to me. Now, through my advocacy, he is remembered every day, which brings me joy,” Jessica reflected.
For more insights on related topics, you can explore our blog on the at-home insemination kit. Also, consider checking out fertility boosters for men for additional information. Furthermore, for a comprehensive understanding of insemination procedures, the Mayo Clinic offers excellent resources.
In summary, Jessica’s journey of grief transformed into a powerful mission to support other families. By donating her breast milk, she not only honors her late son but also provides hope and nourishment to countless infants, showcasing the strength and compassion of grieving mothers.
Keyphrase: Mother’s breast milk donation
Tags: [“home insemination kit”, “home insemination syringe”, “self insemination”]