Annual Breastfeeding Awareness Community Fair to be held on August 2 at Laredo Medical Center
7/23/2024
Moms and expecting moms can learn about the numerous benefits lactation can offer infants, mothers and families during the fourth annual Breastfeeding Awareness Community Fair on Friday, August 2, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Laredo Medical Center in the hospital’s community center, located in Tower B, first floor.
The local effort to support breastfeeding is part of National Breastfeeding Month in August, and this year, Laredo Medical Center is amplifying awareness by joining forces with the City of Laredo Public Health and several other community organizations.
The fair will begin with the Honorable Dr. Victor Treviño, mayor of the city of Laredo, who will present a proclamation to declare August as National Breastfeeding Month.
Breastfeeding talks by mothers with stories of their successful lactation experiences will be a new addition to the event. Laredo Medical Center’s lactation specialists and the neonatal intensive care unit team, as well as representatives from Laredo Public Health and other groups will offer information about breastfeeding to help moms and dads reach their goals and give their babies the best possible start in life.
Among the groups participating are the City of Laredo Public Health, WIC Program, Texas Nurse Family Partnership, Healthy Texas Mothers & Babies Program, La Leche League, Driscoll Children’s Hospital, Mom 365, Casa Esperanza and the Laredo Medical Center Trauma Department, among others.
Moms will also be able to sign up for LMC’s “Breast Friends” breastfeeding support group and a free Breastfeeding Basics class for expecting moms. The fair will also feature door prizes and light refreshments.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, breastfeeding is the standard for infant feeding. It provides essential nutrients and antibodies that boost an infant’s immune system, providing protection from childhood illnesses.
Babies who are not breastfed are more likely to develop chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, asthma and cancer.
Breastfeeding is important for mothers, too. Women who breastfeed have a reduced risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer and osteoporosis.
Last year, Laredo Medical Center earned the designation of a Texas Mother-Friendly Worksite – and this year, the hospital proudly has been re-designated as a Gold Worksite for proactively supporting its employees with time, space, and other assistance to maintain breastfeeding after returning to work. Additionally, Laredo Medical Center is designated by Texas Health and Human Services as a Texas Ten Step facility, an important commitment to improving maternity care and optimal breastfeeding support for new moms and their babies.
For more information about the Breastfeeding Awareness Community Fair at Laredo Medical Center, call (956) 796-2611.
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