Forward Together: Stories from Our Breastfeeding Peer Counselors
We asked some of our Breastfeeding Peer Counselors why they are dedicated to helping and supporting moms who are breastfeeding. They have shared their stories below.
If you would like to join our team, we are hiring compassionate individuals who want to make a difference. Visit WIC Careeer Opportunities to learn more.
Alexis’ Story
What made you want to become a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor?
My past and current medical history motivate me to keep providing breastfeeding peer counseling services. I was not breastfed as a baby; I was formula-fed. This was 30 years ago. So, all the information we have now about breastfeeding, the great benefits, services, and support that are available now weren’t available when I was a baby/child. I was diagnosed with different cancers and several other illnesses and diseases that breastfeeding may have prevented. I didn’t have the option as a child, nor did my mama have all the information that’s available now about breastfeeding. And at that time, my mom was young. I believe if my mom did have all the resources that are available now, she would have chosen to breastfeed me. I say all this to say I am not able to go back in time to change the decision my mother made about feeding me. Still, I do have the chance now to help other mothers who are looking into breastfeeding, who may lack some knowledge about the great benefits of breastfeeding, mothers who want to breastfeed and don’t have the support system, or whatever the case may be.
What motivates you to keep providing breastfeeding peer counseling services?
As a breastfeeding peer counselor, I can help mothers look beyond formula feeding to find opportunities to lower the chances of illness and diseases. This can also reduce the chances of babies or moms going through what I have experienced. Not only does this motivate me to continue my services as a breastfeeding peer counselor and provide breastfeeding support to moms, but it also motivates me to keep pushing in my personal life by seeing how many people I can help.
I was told that I couldn’t have kids due to my family being afraid of my medical history. I breastfed both of my daughters. My daughters have been healthy since birth (2014 & 2017). Neither of my kids has experienced anything I have been through.
Andrea's Story
What made you want to become a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor? 
I had no idea about what a peer counselor was. I was getting calls as a former WIC participant. I was asked if I wanted to become a peer counselor. What I remember as a first-time mom and struggling with breastfeeding, specifically latching, was I appreciated the calls. The calls kept me going and made me try even harder with breastfeeding. After the opportunity presented itself, I thought that if I could do it, I knew I could encourage other moms. I LOVE it! I have encouraged many moms in my family, at my church, in my community, and even total strangers to breastfeed. It is nothing for me to see a mom at an event breastfeeding and pop up with a bottle of water and say, “Remember, you gotta stay hydrated.”
What motivates you to keep providing breastfeeding peer counseling services?
My motivation is that after talking to 20 moms, if I can convince one to breastfeed, it makes me feel like a job well done. I come across all kinds of moms—young, teenagers, and seasoned moms. Some are strong-minded, and after I talk for a while, most will say, “Okay, I’ll try it.” Sometimes, you simply have to meet people where they are and get on their level. Every day is a challenge; that challenge motivates me.
Who was there for you as a new breastfeeding mom? How did they help?
As a former breastfeeding mom, I had a great support system. Not only did I have a private insurance provider that had a nurse checking in on me weekly, but I also had WIC encouraging me and helping me with my challenges. I had a difficult time getting my first baby to latch. I used a nipple shield. One day, I was sitting in the room, preparing to nurse her, and my husband came in and sat with me. When she latched on with the aid of the nipple shield, he removed it, and she latched on to me. It was the most amazing feeling. After that, it was smooth sailing. I exclusively breastfed her for 18 months. I exclusively breastfed my second baby for 1 year and my last baby for 13 months. My last baby was jaundiced. I was told to formula feed. A nurse came in and said, “You are doing great with the breastfeeding. Just keep breastfeeding her; it may take a little longer but keep breastfeeding her.” She was so right. I continued to exclusively breastfeed my baby, and she turned out perfect. I can only hope other moms experience what I have experienced during my breastfeeding journey.
Kristina's Story
What made you want to become a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor?
I can work around my schedule, and the hours are flexible, allowing me to spend time with my children. When school stuff comes up, field trips, parent-teacher meetings, doctor appointments, or even emergencies occur, I have the freedom to be a better mom because I can be there and not miss out on important events. It is a bonus that I am also very passionate about breastfeeding
and helping moms reach their breastfeeding goals. So, this is the perfect job for me and my family. I always feel fulfilled because I know I make a difference in someone’s life, which is a good feeling!
What motivates you to keep providing breastfeeding peer counseling services?
What motivates me to continue down the path of counseling WIC moms during their breastfeeding journeys is that I am helping
mothers in a time in their lives that can seem so alone and isolated. The pressure to succeed in being a good mom can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re struggling with breastfeeding. Most women want to be good mothers, and if I can offer them support during their time of need, then it is worth every second. Sometimes, a new mom just needs to hear that they are doing a good job, and a call from a familiar voice can uplift her enough to continue during a bad day. Also, I love giving a struggling mom tips or instructions on how to fix a breastfeeding issue. Then you hear from her later and she says, “Your advice helped me so much, and breastfeeding is going great now, thank you!” That encourages me to continue down this path. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to help and support new breastfeeding moms in Alabama.
Who was there for you as a new breastfeeding mom? How did they help?
My mother was there for me, and she was amazing—completely supportive and always ready with the tools I needed to succeed.
I grew up around breastfeeding women, so it felt natural to do the same. My mom helped in so many ways, but a few moments stand out. When my daughter was just three days old, she brought me a nursing pillow that made everything more comfortable. She always had answers to my questions and was so kind and patient. One day, I asked how long and how often to nurse. She said, “Just nurse her until she’s done, and if she’s hungry again, nurse her again. Your body knows what to do.” Her words gave me confidence. I miss her deeply and am so grateful for the time we had. I can only hope to be the kind of mother to my children that she was to us.
Mary's Story
What made you want to become a Breastfeeding Peer Counselor?
Initially, the flexible schedule motivated me. I had been off of work for two years so I could stay home and breastfeed my second child. I was ready to return to work, but I did not want to sacrifice my ability to be at all of my kids’ things and pick them up every day. This job worked perfectly with that goal.
What motivates you to keep providing breastfeeding peer counseling services?
I love seeing how breastfeeding education or support I have provided changes a mom’s perspective about her ability to breastfeed. I love seeing moms go from feeling defeated to thriving. I love it when a mom says that they wouldn’t have breastfed or wouldn’t have breastfed for as long without me. Being able to positively help another mom’s journey and impact their family’s health for generations brings me great joy!
Who was there for you as a new breastfeeding mom? How did they help?
I had a breastfeeding peer counselor who helped support me in both of my breastfeeding journeys, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant who taught me all the basics of breastfeeding my firstborn in the NICU, and a little sister who helped me to be confident breastfeeding in public.
Page last updated: May 15, 2026
