LANSING, Mich. – University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Lansing has donated six hospital-grade breast pumps for new mothers staying at the Ronald McDonald House (RMH) of Mid-Michigan, allowing breastfeeding mothers to focus on their health and their baby's well-being.

“Having a breast pump available to moms while they rest between visits with their baby at UM Health-Sparrow Lansing’s Regional Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (RNICU) is crucial for their breastmilk supply and ultimately their baby’s health,” said lactation consultant Kristin Caverly BSN, R.N., IBCLC. “Mothers shouldn’t have to stress about breast pump access.”

Caverly applied for a grant from the UM Health-Sparrow Foundation after several mothers requested greater access to breast pumps at RMH. The donation now allows each family staying at the house, which is adjacent to the hospital along Michigan Avenue, to have their own breast pump during their stay.

“Feeding infants can be a journey that presents differently for each family based on the child's condition,” said Carolyn Hurst, executive director of Ronald McDonald House Charities Mid-Michigan. “This gift equips all of our families with the resources and supplies they need as they spend time at the child's bedside and at the Ronald McDonald House.” 

To learn more about lactation and breastfeeding support at UM Health-Sparrow or Mid-Michigan’s only Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, visit UofMHealthSparrow.org.                   

 Photo caption: Staff from UM Health-Sparrow and Ronald McDonald House celebrate new breast pumps donated to the House.