Monday, April 27, 2009

No more milk

I am no longer pumping anymore. My supply kept dwindling within the last week and it has finally got to the point where it's not worth pumping. I was only getting 1 ounce total during a pumping session. I am happy that I succeeded in pumping some milk for my cousin Amber and slowly decreasing my supply to avoid engorgement. I was able to pump approximately 300 ounces and I think that's a pretty decent amount. I'm still having some leaking issues so it's not completely gone. The breast pads will be sticking around for a little longer-at least when I go out in public. I don't really care if I walk around with wet spots on my boobs at home. Sorry if I just gave you a mental image. Anyway, it's nice to know that I could do this for my cousin. It always feels nice helping other people. Love you bunches, Amber!

14 comments:

The Rigelsky Family said...

you are such a darling...so self-less.

Celia said...

I'm sorry to hear that your milk is drying out. At the same time, I am glad to hear that you avoided engorgement. I know that is an issue. I only wish I had better luck with pumping. I usually have to milk myself similar to milking a cow. For some reason, the pumps (I have used manual and automatic - several different versions) don't work for me so pumping will likely be just a "pump dream" :-)

I know your cousin Amber will really appreciate that milk. It will come in handy I'm sure.

Andi Soergel said...

What a great idea! I love that you were able to take something that is a constant reminder of the loss you suffered to help someone else! Isn't that what Jesus wants us to do? :)
I wish I had thought of something-we had Haven's service a week after his birth and all the many hugs I received that day were pretty painful!
love,
Andi Soergel

Sara said...

I applaud you for deciding to pump for your cousin's baby. I thought about donating my milk since I had a massive supply with Kayla and probably would have had after William too. I just don't think I could have done it, probably would have made everything harder. I'm glad you were able to do it even if it was for a little while. And 300 ounces is awesome.

Anonymous said...

It was so amazing that you were able to do that for your cousin. One thing I learned from my sister when she was ready to stop pumping is her Doctor told her to put cabbage leaves on her breasts instead of the pads. I know it sounds strange but my cousins doctor actually told her the same thing and it really worked. There is something in the leaves that is natural for your body (so there are no side effects) and it will stop you from having to worry about the leakage. Don't mean to get personal but I thought I would share- it could help in the long run (and I guess the leaves really don't smell as bad as you'd think- my cousin said it was worth it).

I also just want to say how much I admire you for your strength and your positivity. Reading your blog has made me change my mind about so many issues that I thought i was set on if I was in your situation. You have shown me a new light and I really thank you for that.

Betty said...

Great job, Holly! 300oz is amazing! What a great thing to do for your cousin!

Sarah Robbins said...

Thank you so much for stopping by my blog. I did want to comment that Homeland Security did do a study on Leftwing Extremism as well. However, it focused almost entirely on cyber-terrorism, and neglected the more personal aspects as well as the first amendment areas as it did with the Rightwing study. . .

After visiting, I want to thank you for sharing your story. . . I was blessed hearing it.

Nicole said...

Pumping is hard work! 300 ounces is great!! You should be very proud of yourself, that stuff is like liquid gold!

Misty said...

Ah yes... the leaking boobs... still there.... still not enjoying it. I'm ready to DRY ON up!!

xo Misty

Debbie said...

LOL about the "mental image" because I've been there. Wow, 300 oz is a lot and is going to be so helpful! ~Debbie

Jake and Stephanie Perrin said...

Thats amazing!! Your a wonderful person. I am sure your cousin appriciates it.. I got engorged after my daughter Jess was born .. Well she was about 3 months old when she started having trouble with her intestines and so they put her on a high special formula which worked but i got engorged a little but and it HURTS!! Take care

Anonymous said...

Holly, I want to thank you very much for what you have done for my daughter. I know during Carleigh's time on earth it has been hard for Amber. With her son about to be born, I know she feels the loss for you. You have been more than a cousin. You have been the older sister many times over and I am blessed for your closeness. Thanks so much again for what you have provided for her. God has shown us many times over that he truly has a plan for you. God bless you.
Love Aunt Nancy

Mom Putnam said...

I could not be more proud of you than I am right now in this moment. I love you, my sweet daughter.
Mom-xoxoxo

Erica said...

Bless your heart. I can imagine pumping really helped, especially with being able to help someone else... I know when my milk came in after we lost our daughter, my older daughter wanted to nurse, since her "sister had to go to heaven, but left her all this milk".

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