Donor Spotlight: Tracy’s Story

For first-time mom Tracy, a deep-rooted joy in giving – and a freezer filled with bags of extra breast milk – led her along the path to become a Milk Bank donor. Here’s her story.

As a first-time mom, I was so nervous about breastfeeding. I wanted it to work so much, but latching was a struggle, so I turned to breast pumping. I wasn’t sure if I would produce enough milk—maybe just enough for my little guy (Ben). But oh, was I wrong! My body apparently got the memo that we were feeding an entire village.

At first, I was in shock. Then my husband was in shock. Then our freezer started crying for help. Postpartum hasn’t been the easiest for me, but I have always found joy in giving. Through research I realized that I could donate my extra breast milk. Through this journey I found out about the Rogers Hixon Ontario Human Milk Bank, an incredible organization that helps provide life-saving donor milk to premature and critically ill babies in hospitals across Ontario and the East Coast. It fills my heart to know that my oversupply—this unexpected and beautiful gift—could possibly help other moms, babies, and families across Canada.

Motherhood has already taught me so much, but this has been one of the most unexpected blessings. I feel beyond grateful to be able to give back in such a special way. And, for the record, my husband and our freezer are both breathing a sigh of relief.

If you or someone you know has an extra supply of breast milk, I highly encourage looking into milk donation. It is a rewarding way to support other families in need!

We are grateful to Tracy for her donation of more than 550 ounces (and counting) of donor milk!