Meet SDBFC's Newest IBCLC - Tabitha Kemp
We are so thrilled to introduce you to our newest lactation consultant at SDBFC! Tabitha Kemp joined us on August 24th and will be doing office visits starting Sept 28th! Here is my interview with Tabitha. I can't wait for you all to meet her!
Tabitha, tell us about yourself!
I am a San Diego Native, married to Adam, my amazing husband of 10 years! We have two beautiful daughters. I am an amateur runner, and I love a good coffee and donut.
What inspired you to become a lactation consultant?
About 4 years ago, while working in the emergency room, I took care of a new mother and her child who simply needed help with breastfeeding. She was nervous and overwhelmed. I will always remember her because she was so thankful to have help with one of the most basic roles of parenthood: feeding her child. After that, I enrolled to take a course to become a Certified Lactation Educator and was overwhelmed by the importance of giving parents the ability to provide breastmilk for their child. I had found my way to contribute to my community by promoting and protecting the health of families.
What are you most excited about working for the SDBFC?
I am excited for the new challenge! I look forward to learning from the impressive lactation consultants at the San Diego Breastfeeding Center. The teamwork and collaboration is amazing, and I love the way all the consultants support one another and their clients as they work through feeding challenges. I hope I can be an advocate and support for all my clients to help them reach their goals!
What are your top 3 tips for a brand new breastfeeding parent?
Be patient. Breastfeeding is natural and normal, but this does not mean it is easy. So be patient with yourself and your baby as you learn.
Find help. There will be hiccups and speed bumps, but resources abound, so do not wait to seek help when and if you have a problem.
Find friends. Surrounding yourself with people (even online) who love and support breastfeeding can be a lifesaver. Having the opportunity to watch someone else breastfeed can be a game changer. So, find a neighbor, friend, or support group where you can be surrounded by breastfeeding.