Madam,

I wonder if I could share the fact that we celebrated the 25th year of World Breastfeeding Week, 1-7 August, by arranging a coffee morning to raise awareness of the importance of requiring a community to support mothers to breastfeed. It was held last week at the Canolfan Deulu/Family Centre, Drill Hall, Dolgellau.

Over 30 attended to enjoy refreshment and to support nursing mothers. Grandparents, experienced breastfeeding mothers, as well as mothers who are new feeding babies, shared stories.

Research shows breastfeeding helps protect children from infections and promotes intellectual development. However, for women, breastfeeding is not plain sailing. Advice, support and education is available. Betsi Cadwaladr health board offers online information, there is peer support from experienced mothers and grandmothers and, of course, there are the health professionals.

Yours etc,

Llinos Gwynne Atherton, health visitor, Cae’r Ffynnon Surgery, Dolgellau.

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