Region promoting World Breastfeeding Week

The message to mothers at the launch of World Breastfeeding Week 2008 in Peel will echo the one delivered to the athletes who competed in this year's Olympics: Believe in yourself, concentrate on optimal health and wellbeing, and actively cultivate your support network.

New mothers in Peel and their families will assemble at Mississauga Civic Centre's Great Hall this Saturday (Oct. 4) at 9 a.m. to support each other as they strive for the gold standard of infant feeding: exclusive breastfeeding for six months.

"For a breastfeeding mother, getting a good start is essential," commented Bev Bryant, child health manager for the Region. "This includes getting help from the hospital, family and friends, health-care providers and the community."

Best known as the entertainment reporter for BT-Breakfast Television and CityNews, Liz West will host the event to support fellow moms and place the spotlight on the importance of breastfeeding.

With its theme of Mother Support: Going for the Gold, the event will feature superhero games for infants, a high-energy workout led by Andrea Page, founder of FITMOM Canada, and the annual latch-on challenge, taking place at 10:45 a.m.

Special guest and renowned Canadian hockey player Justine Blainey will talk about her experiences and the importance of having a team of support for breastfeeding mothers. Blainey gained national recognition when she fought and won the right to compete with boys on the ice. Today she is a successful chiropractor and champion volunteer with the Peel Region Breastfeeding Companions program.

"Belief in oneself is a key element to success for both an athlete and a mother," said Bryant. "Peel Public Health's breastfeeding services provide information and support, which assures moms that they have what it takes to make breastfeeding successful."

World Breastfeeding Week is part of a global campaign to increase public awareness and support of breastfeeding. Peel Region is partnering with Ontario Early Years Centres and La Leche League Canada to host this year's launch of World Breastfeeding Week in Peel.

Peel Public Health supports the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommendation that babies be breastfed exclusively for six months, with the introduction of complementary foods at six months, and that breastfeeding may continue for up to two years of age and beyond.

For more information on Peel Public Health's breastfeeding services, call (905) 799-7700, or visit www.BreastfeedingInPeel.c a