82 moms nursed their babies at Eau Claire market Sunday morning for the third annual Calgary Breastfeeding Challenge.
Alisha Brignall, the organizer of the event in Calgary, says the Breastfeeding Challenge is held across North America every year to raise awareness of breastfeeding and its benefits, as well as to offer support to nursing mothers.
"We believe the bond between the mom and baby is the most important thing when fostering attachment of a child and a healthy adult when they grow up, and breastfeeding is just one of those ways that helps that bond."
Sarah Deveau says some moms breastfeed without any problems, but many others, like herself, have experienced difficulties.
"I didn't breastfeed my first. I was very apprehensive about it, I didn't know a lot about it, and I had trouble at the start, so I just gave up really early. I kind of regret it."
She says that's when it's important to get the right information and have the support of health professionals, family, and friends.
"I learned more about breastfeeding and the benefits of breastfeeding and I had some friends that were very supportive of me. I decided to give it a good try for this time, and I was very challenged again this time, but I went and got support, got help, and was determined not to give up."
Jessica Swingle learned that just because you breastfeed one baby successfully, it doesn't mean it will be the same for subsequent children.
"With my first daughter, I had no problems at all. So with her (my second daughter), it was kind of a shock because you always think your second baby, if you succeeded with your first one, it should be easy with your second."
Brignall says the World Health Organization recommends moms breastfeed for up to two years. The North American average is around six months.
