Hospital Apologizes for Breastfeeding Incident

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Posted: 10:34 PM May 25, 2007
Last Updated: 8:24 PM May 26, 2007
Reporter: Mary Rinzel
Email Address: mary.rinzel@weau.com

65 comments

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A mother leaves a hospital in tears after she says she was intimidated for breastfeeding in public.

Kathleen Evertsen says she was forced to finish feeding her four-month-old son in her car because she felt so uncomfortable. Now, she hopes by sharing her story, other moms won't have to go through what she did.

It's snack time at the Evertsen house. Dad gets Hailey, Chris, Shaylin and Jackson their munchies.

But, when it's little Nathan’s turn, it's up to mom. And, when Nathan’s hungry, he won't wait.

Kathleen breastfed each of her six children and says she's never had a problem feeding them in a public place, until waiting for an appointment this week.

"A lady said we'll take you to a private room and I thought ‘what great treatment,’” Evertsen says. “Then we got out in the hall and a nurse said there’re people coming. The man leading me turned right around and was very close to me. I told him I didn’t mind and he said 'other people do.' I tried to walk by and he wouldn’t let me and that’s when I started to cry. He was very close, I felt very intimidated."

Kathleen says she's heard breastfeeding horror stories from other moms, but never thought it'd happen to her, especially not where it did.

"That's the most shocking part,” she says. “That it happened at a hospital of all the places in the world."

Now Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire is apologizing.

"Our intent was to provide her with a private room and she came out into a throng of people. The director of our radiology department was a little overzealous in trying to rush her,” says Director of Communication John Ganahl. “I regret she felt uncomfortable in how she was treated"

"We are saddened when it’s part of our goal and mission to help women feel comfortable breastfeeding,” says Kathleen Axelsen, clinical director of nursing special services. “That's not who we are. We want her to feel supported here and hope she accepts our apology."

Kathleen says she doesn't want to punish Sacred Heart. She just wants people to understand that breastfeeding is about the baby.

"In this country, breasts are so sexual, we're not there to make a scene," she says.

And hopes that her speaking out will prevent another mom from leaving somewhere in tears.

"It's their right and their baby's right to eat wherever and they shouldn't feel intimidated.”

Kathleen says she delivered Nathan at Sacred Heart and says everyone was always very supportive of breastfeeding. She says that's why she was so surprised when this happened there.

Directors at the hospital say they're planning on giving all departments that don't see a lot of moms and babies a refresher on the fact that in Wisconsin it is legal for a woman to breastfeed in all public places.

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: Lisa Location: MN on Jun 10, 2007 at 11:11 AM
Oh, Tami, your argument takes the cake! Now you're worried about your HUSBAND seeing another woman's breasts nourishing a child! If you're that worried about him wandering, maybe you shouldn't take him out in public anymore. In fact, maybe you better disconnect your TV and internet because he may stumble upon some cleavage. For the people saying they have a right not to see a woman breastfeeding - no you don't. You have a neck that has the power to turn your head, and you have legs that have the power to walk you to a different location. You have no right to tell a woman when and where she can or can't breastfeed.

Posted by: cindy Location: iowa city on Jun 9, 2007 at 07:32 AM
Why is the assumption (by some of you commenters) that she was "letting it all hang out"? I have read her description of the event. She was covered by her shirt and a blanket on her belly. The man who stopped her in the hall admitted to her that he could not see any of her breast. No one in the waiting area complained. She WAS being discreet. And yet, that was not enough for this man. So, no, I don't agree that if women would just breastfeed in public "the right way" it would become more acceptable. 98% of women who breastfeed in public are doing it "discreetly". Also, I personally cannot give breastmilk in a bottle. Breast pumps do not work as well as my baby in getting the milk out. If I pumped instead of breastfeeding while I was out and about, I would lose my milk supply.

Posted by: laura Location: massachusetts on Jun 7, 2007 at 05:21 PM
oh good grief people. Get over your hang ups about breasts. They are for feeding babies, that is what the human bodily function is for them. Any mother should be allowed to feed her baby anywhere anytime.

Posted by: Ann Location: Algoma on Jun 7, 2007 at 02:35 PM
Tammy -- Lucky for you, you don't have to sit in the same room as a nursing mother and child if you do not want to. You are completely free to move about to another location. You are asking, however, that someone else be expected to move, in effect, prioritizing your comfort above that of another person (two people, in fact). That is unreasonable. BFing is a normal, healthy activity that poses no sort of risk to any other people and which has considerable benefits for society in general (in the form of healthier kids and moms).

Posted by: karl Location: somewhere on Jun 7, 2007 at 02:32 PM
Norma, I get the feeling you don't have children of your own. If you did you'd know children need breastmilk or formula if you're not a good parent until your child is a MINIMUM of 12 months! Get a ife, NO ONE is seeking publicity, only results to fix a bad policy. If you think THIS is a publicity stunt you need to look in the mirror, you old troll (internet troll that is)! Oh and as for the rest of you, just so you know your state gives women a legal right to breastfeed wherever she is allowed, meaning you have no right to argue, if you don't want to see it cover yourself with a blanket!

Posted by: Tami Location: Eau Claire on Jun 7, 2007 at 01:58 PM
Why do you feel you are so special that you should not have to feel uncomfortable breastfeeding in public. What about the wives who feel uncomfortable with their husbands seeing your breasts because you are too indecent to find a more private area or at least cover up better! Get a clue, and get a room. When I breastfed, I NEVER had trouble being able to be modest while breastfeeding. If you want your breasts to hang out, move to Africa.

Posted by: Jen Location: Eleva on Jun 7, 2007 at 01:47 PM
It is too bad that hard feelings arose, and that she felt uncomfortable. There were definitely more tactful ways that the hospital could have handled the situation. However, no matter how old your child is, not everyone thinks it is as cute as you do, and not everyone should be forced to put up with it.

Posted by: Luciana Location: Fort Wayne, IN on Jun 7, 2007 at 12:17 PM
To NORMA: you asked "Why is anybody breastfeeding a 10 month old anyway"- well, maybe, just MAYBE, because both the American Academy of Pediatrics AND the World Health Organization say that children should be breastfed until they're 2 years old. And that during the first year of life, breastmilk is the most important part of an infant's diet. So, in breastfeeding a 10-month old, the mother is simply doing what everyone else (at least everyone who knows what they're talking about) knows it's best. Prejudice leads to NOTHING.

Posted by: Rebecca Location: Burlington on Jun 7, 2007 at 11:56 AM
I love how they're trying to cover their butts by saying it was to make her more comfortable. Obviously she didn't have a problem nursing where she was sitting, they should have just let her nurse where she was if their intention was to TRULY make her more comfortable. Norma, at 10 months a baby still needs formula or breastmilk and weaning from a bottle shouldn't occur until after a year old. That said, a bottle is not the same as a breast, and they really shouldn't be compared in that manner. She's not simply seeking media attention, she's seeking to educate people that breastfeeding is NOT going to go away just because people want it to and it is the STANDARD in infant and toddler nutrition (not the best, standard, everything else is, you guessed it, sub-standard.) Tammy, you talk about how you don't want to have to explain breastfeeding to your 7 year old, do you feel the same way about people in wheelchairs? Mentally retarded people? Ugly people? Fat people? It's time to teach your child some compassion and that not everything they see in life is going to be pleasant or something that YOU want to explain to them, but that's what comes from stepping outside into public, you can't expect anything but the unexpected. You should be ready to explain ANYTHING to your child. Joe, yes, it's your right to tell her to cover herself, but it would also be her right to tell you to shove it up your butt.

Posted by: Kristina G Location: Texas on Jun 7, 2007 at 10:19 AM
"Posted by: Tammy Location: Wisconsin Why would one think that it is their right to feed/eat wherever they want? Do you see other people sitting around clinics etc. eating their lunches? I do not feel that I should have to sit in the same room with my 7 year old while a woman is breast feeding and have to explain to him what she is doing. I find it to be tacky and offensive. I would think that one would want some privacy while doing this." I'll give you an example of how to explain this to your son (I'm suprised he doesn't know what breastfeeding is by 7, but it is not too late to educate!). Your son: What is that lady doing mommy? You: That is how mommies feed their babies. Their breasts make milk for their babies to eat. Your son: Oh, Ok. As for your other questions, go to kellymom.com and educate yourself.

Posted by: Kristina G Location: Texas on Jun 7, 2007 at 10:12 AM
"Posted by: Norma Location: Wisconsin One unfortunate incident blown out of proportion by a person seeking media attention. Why is anybody breastfeeding a 10 month old anyway--he should be off the bottle by now!!" No person making a statement like this should be giving breastfeeding advice to anyone. You are obviously ignorant in this subject, and I suggest you go to kellymom.com to educate yourself and avoid future embarrasment.

Posted by: Kristina G Location: Texas on Jun 7, 2007 at 10:09 AM
"Posted by: Joe Location: Eau Claire While I agree that it is her right to feed her son in public, some people don't care to see her breast. If her intent is only to feed her son then why does she talk about her breasts in a sexual way. I think she used the nurses good gesture to make a scene. I have seen woman feeding there children before and they keep there breasts covered and there doesn't seem to be any problems. I would not have been comfortable in the situation that happened and would have told Evertsen to cover her self and that would have been MY right." 1)No, it is not YOUR right; the breastfeeding pair is protected by law. 2)The incident began when she was "offered" a private room; otherwise the mom would have continued without incident. 3)The mom was not talking about her breasts in a sexual way, she merely stated that our culture sexualizes breasts to the exclusion of their actual purpose of feeding a child. Just another example of how self-centered and puritanical Americans can be about the human body when it is feeding a child and not exposed by an Oscar dress. Incidents like this really do make us look ridiculous. http://www.acclaimimages.com/_gallery/_pages/0332-0605-2505-0057.html

Posted by: Lisa Location: Wisconsin on Jun 7, 2007 at 09:59 AM
Norma, your ignorance is showing. Children are never to be weaned off breastmilk or formula before a year unless there are mitigating circumstances and directed by a doctor. Thank you to Kathleen for bringing your story public. It's just another step along the way to making breastfeeding the norm.

Posted by: Jesse Location: NY on Jun 7, 2007 at 08:53 AM
"Posted by: Norma Location: Wisconsin One unfortunate incident blown out of proportion by a person seeking media attention. Why is anybody breastfeeding a 10 month old anyway--he should be off the bottle by now!!" First of all, the baby in the story is only 4 months, and second of all, why would a 10 month old need to be on a bottle. My breasts work just as well for my 2 and a half year old as they did when she was born.

Posted by: LeAnn Location: Texas on Jun 7, 2007 at 03:40 AM
Yeah, it's your right to tell a breastfeeding woman to cover herself, and it's her right to tell you to bugger off. No, a baby cannot wait for a more "appropriate place" to feed, it's a baby! And, dear god, why don't you do a little research, a 10 month old baby should not be weaned or put on a bottle, even the AAP and WHO say so! Grow up people!

Posted by: Jessie Location: WA on Jun 6, 2007 at 03:18 PM
I feel very sorry for that mom. Breastfeeding is about nourishment for the baby, not a sexual act. Plus, its recommended that a mom breastfeed her baby for 1 year or longer. There is nothing wrong with nursing at 10 months old!!! I've nursed 2 girls until they were toddlers and they have never had ear infections, the flu, or other common sickness that bottle fed babies get.

Posted by: Denise on Jun 6, 2007 at 02:30 PM
Breastfeeding is wonderful and good for all of society. Tammy, isn't it time, that you talked to your thearpist about your issues with your breast?

Posted by: Laura Location: Alberta on Jun 6, 2007 at 01:20 PM
I'm surprised by the attitude in your post, Norma. Maybe you aren't aware of how long children should be breastfed. The World Health Organization and the Canadian Paediatric Society ecourage women to breastfeed their children up to age two and beyond. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that "[b]reastfeeding should be continued for at least the first year of life and beyond for as long as mutually desired by mother and child."

Posted by: Sara Location: Connecticut on Jun 5, 2007 at 09:19 PM
Norma - First, read the article again, the baby was four months old. Second, his age lacks relevance for me in the case of a mother feeding her child. Another infant would have had a bottle there without incident, a toddler would have had a sippy cup without notice. The container providing the milk (in this case the breast) really doesn't have to be an issue. And as far as the child's age goes, current recommendations from the AAP are that a mother nurse her child until at least 12 months old. Worldwide recommendations (for countries not as ignorant and uptight as ours) are to nurse for at least 2 years. So I hardly think 4 months, or even 10 as you mistakenly thought, is worth mention other than to commend the mother! Breastfeeding has many proven health benefits for both mother and child including but not limited to decresed breast cancer risk, decreased incidence of diabetes, obesity and some childhood cancers as well. Increasing the breastfeeding rate in our country is not just a personal issue but a public health issue, one that would promote the health of future generations and potentially decrease healthcare costs in the future. In addition, decreasing the manufacture and packaging of artificial milk (baby formula) would reduce waste and pollution. Encouraging mothers on public assistance to breastfeed would promote their own health, the health of their child and decrease the amount of money spent on formula - allowing those funds to be used elsewhere. The next time you see a nursing mother in public - smile at her - what she is doing is good for all of us!

Posted by: Annie Location: Green Bay on Jun 5, 2007 at 07:28 AM
Tammy - I think it's outrageous that you are so ignorant. It is quite simple to explain to a child that a mother is feeding her baby. A child of seven would not only understand (unless his mother is incapable of explaining something so basic) but would probably just walk on - as a breast would not yet be considered sexual. As a mother, you should well know that a baby can't always wait - like a 30-year-old can for a sandwich. Further, I'll bet you almost anything that when your child was a baby, you didn't think twice about bringing out that bottle of formula anywhere in public when he was hungry. Breastfeeding in public is no different - except for people like you who can't get past the whole "oh my God, I'm seeing a boob" thing. My suggestion - get over it - go to a La Leche League meeting - or read a book for crying out loud. It's ignorance like yours that perpetuates this problem for poor mothers like the one in this story.

Posted by: Joe Location: Eau Claire on Jun 5, 2007 at 06:08 AM
While I agree that it is her right to feed her son in public, some people don't care to see her breast. If her intent is only to feed her son then why does she talk about her breasts in a sexual way. I think she used the nurses good gesture to make a scene. I have seen woman feeding there children before and they keep there breasts covered and there doesn't seem to be any problems. I would not have been comfortable in the situation that happened and would have told Evertsen to cover her self and that would have been MY right.

Posted by: Norma Location: Wisconsin on Jun 5, 2007 at 04:37 AM
One unfortunate incident blown out of proportion by a person seeking media attention. Why is anybody breastfeeding a 10 month old anyway--he should be off the bottle by now!!

Posted by: Julia Location: Wisconsin on Jun 4, 2007 at 10:10 PM
TSK!TSK! Shame on you Sacred Heart employees involved in creating such scene. I feel for Kathleen and her child. You were totally out of line in doing what you did to her. SHAME ON YOU! The employees involved in causing this problem should be doing a personal apology in person, in writing and they should be the ones to be identifying themselves in the written apology via the local newspapers, etc.

Posted by: Char Location: chetek on Jun 4, 2007 at 06:28 PM
women that breastfeed have the right to do it. it is a nature thing.we shouldn't be looked down on.when it comes to a child asking what the lady is doing they should tell the child that the baby is eating.

Posted by: Amanda Location: Louisiana on Jun 4, 2007 at 02:14 PM
I cannot believe some of the comments left here. It is TACKY and OFFENSIVE to be OFFENDED by a baby receiving nourishment. Are you ashamed to pull out a bottle for your baby, where ever you may be? It is very possible to breastfeed discreetly, and most women do. In my state, the events in this article would be labeled as "segregation" and "discrimination". In short, she could have sued.

Posted by: Mary Location: Wisconsin on Jun 4, 2007 at 08:45 AM
I think its sad that our legislature is spending valuable time and money making a "law" that allows breastfeeding in public. Since its not illegal in Wisconsin, I believe their time should be better spent on more serious matters. I further believe that mothers should use a bit of discretion in where and how they decide to breastfeed their babies and then I doubt the public would have any problems with them breastfeeding in public. A bit of personal responsibility on their part would go a long way instead of pointing blame at everyone else.

Posted by: Rebecca Location: Wisconsin on Jun 1, 2007 at 09:26 AM
People seem to forget that the purpose of breasts is to feed babies. Babies need to be fed when they are hungry. I breastfed all three of my children. If your child asks "what is the lady doing?" here's a suggestions. Say, "She's feeding her baby." Isn't that enough. What else is their to explain.

Posted by: Tami Location: Wisconsin on Jun 1, 2007 at 01:31 AM
"Why would one think that it is their right to feed/eat wherever they want?" If you don't want to sit there and watch her feed her son, or anyone else for that matter, are you offended also when a woman bottle feeds her child? It's the same principal. Simply because she's choosing to breast feed rather than bottle feed is no reason to be upset and offended by it. If you're going to be upset with breast feeding, I urge you to stop being a hypocrit and start speaking up when a woman bottle feeds as well. I fully support every womans right to breast feed anywhere she pleases. She's choosing a method of feeding her child, and I'm ok with that. I would say nothing if a mother who had a child who was 6 months old felt it necessary to only feed her child milk. It's not my place. If I don't like it, I do not have to sit there and watch. Same principal applies. I'm glad that she's been given an appology.

Posted by: Lovina Location: Eau Claire, Wisconsin on May 31, 2007 at 10:47 PM
Even though I was not one of the mothers to breast feed my baby, I understand how important it is for the baby to eat. I feel that if the baby is hungry feed it. I see nothing wrong with a woman who is breast feeding their child, it is a natural thing and should be viewed that way. Would you want to be responsible for making your child wait just because a few people were uncomfortable with you feeding them? And as for the comment that the one woman below made, I do infact see a lot of people sitting around clinics and other not eating places eating their lunches. Especially kids because they just don't understand the concept of waiting. Parents deal with so many issues now a days and it seems that if people in public are not complaining about the noise level of the children, they find something else to complain about this just happens to be next on the list.

Posted by: Robyn Location: Minnesota on May 31, 2007 at 03:38 PM
It is a baby's right to eat whenever and wherever they would like. For the woman who is worried about explaining to her 7 year old breastfeeding- what a perfect chance to educate about breastfeeding....would you feel the need to explain bottle feeding? I feel for this breastfeeding mom. Even with all the information about the benefits of breastfeeding for moms and babies people are still so ignorant.

Posted by: kathy Location: wisconsin on May 31, 2007 at 01:43 PM
The mother should use a little discrestion when breastfeeding. I feel breastfeeding is important I just don't think it needs to be so public.

Posted by: Rose Location: Eau Claire, WI on May 31, 2007 at 12:48 PM
While I am sorry the woman felt intimidated by the man, she really is infringing on other peoples rights not to have to see her breastfeed. And yes I breastfed mine too, but I did it in such a way that no one was aware of it. You can cover yourself so that your breast is not exposed to public view. And if she has fed 6 children this way she does know how to be discreet about it. It is natural, but then so are a lot of other things, and you need to be aware of your surroundings, and have the good sense to be polite to other peoples feelings, as well as theirs to yours.

Posted by: jenny Location: wisconsin on May 31, 2007 at 08:02 AM
o.k. I understand the baby needs to eat and the purpose of mothers wanting to breast feed but they make breast pumps and bottles! pump and fill the bottle if you need to. its a baby always hungry, i agree, i dont want to explain to my four yr old why... a bill?? how about respect for others. i dont want to be at a restaurant eating why some women to the table next to me plops out her boob

Posted by: Margaret Location: Eau Claire on May 31, 2007 at 07:47 AM
Breast feeding can be done very privately without a lot of exposure when in a public place. It's best for the baby and should be encouraged.

Posted by: Lee Location: NY State on May 31, 2007 at 02:24 AM
The person from the radiology department did not realize that the baby had a need to breastfeed and should not have been disturbed. Would he have asked a bottle feeding child be taken to another location to feed? The incident in the hallway was a result of his interrupting the infant feeding where the child had a right to feed. Would the man like to have his meal interrupted because someone did not want to see him eating? Regarding comments: Tammy - It is unfortunate that in our culture a 7 year old would not be familiar with a baby breastfeeding. Even though I find it uncomfortable to see a child bottle feeding, I would not expect the child to go feed in private. Laurel, Jenee, and Katie - I agree with you and would suggest that the legislation change its wording to "protects a breastfeeding CHILD's rights to feed in public." Would anyone deny a child its rights to feed or be comforted at the breast?

Posted by: Sabrina Location: Wisconsin on May 30, 2007 at 07:35 PM
I'm not glad this happened to this mother , but people need to be aware of the discrimination going on. A mother has every right to feed her baby when needed, we don't ask a bottle feeding mom to leave the room. Only people with filthy minds would be offended, their the ones with the problem!!! It is perfectly natural for mothers(human and animal) to nurse their babies and if your upset because your seven year old is asking questions than shame on you! They should know how nature works long before that!! Everyone knows that nursing is the best thing for babies. Kudos to nursing moms everywhere!!!

Posted by: Brandi Location: Texas on May 30, 2007 at 04:58 PM
I am a proud breastfeeding mother and when I heard this story form Kat, i was shoked. I could feel her emotions and felt sorry for her! I think it is great that women breastfeed, it is so good for the baby. I have never understood how people can be so offended by breastfeeding, it is a natural thing that todays society has made a big deal.For those who say it is discusting and offensive, well maybe there are some thing that are offensive to me, but like a civilized person, i choose to keep my mouth shut, as should you.

Posted by: Robin Location: Platteville on May 30, 2007 at 11:52 AM
How is that young mothers and fathers will think of breastfeeding as normal if they have never witnessed it happening. Nursing where baby and mother are comfortable, sometimes means in a publicly visible place. Modesty is attempted, but sometimes a fussy baby makes it difficult. I do not feel that because of this, a woman should hide what she is doing. She has made the healthiest choice and our society needs to support that in whatever way is possible. That is unless we prefer to pay for the expensive medical bills and sacrifice the physical, mental, and emotional benefits proven of breastfeeding.

Posted by: Dawn Location: PA on May 30, 2007 at 08:46 AM
YOU GO GIRL the more people are educated the better

Posted by: Jeanne Location: Wisconsin on May 29, 2007 at 03:12 PM
What is the hospital apologizing for? For offering privacy and asking the feelings of others be respected? Most people are not comfortable seeing a breast in public. Breastfeeding is a wonderful thing to do for your baby and very natural but so is going to the bathroom but we all shut the door and wouldn't do it in public. Cover up and be discreet in public or find a private place to feed your baby. A breast is still a breast. I noticed you did not show yourself breastfeeding on the news coverage, was the baby not hungary then or didn't you or TV13 want to show your breast to the public?

Posted by: Courtney Location: Virginia on May 29, 2007 at 02:24 PM
Tammy I am so sorry that you dont feel comfortable enough explaining to your 7 yr old a natural process of life. I see nothing wrong with feeding your infant in public wherever you may be. Would you rather have an infant cry uncontrolably for an extended period of time because he/she is hungry? I think not.

Posted by: Elizabeth Location: Wi on May 29, 2007 at 01:59 PM
Bravo for any woman who wants to breast feed her children, however, I agree with one person who says it should be done privately. I am sickened by sight of someone "whipping out a boob" to feed a child, especially when I am eating. The last thing I want to see is someone else's breast. Please, how about a little respect for us other people??

Posted by: NursingMama Location: Seattle on May 29, 2007 at 01:16 PM
Would you rather have a happy fed baby in a waiting room, or one screaming because he is so hungry and nobody will feed him?

Posted by: Sarah Location: Eau Claire on May 29, 2007 at 11:57 AM
I am so proud of Kathleen for standing up for the rights of breastfeeding mothers. I recently had my first child. Before I had him I thought I would never breastfeed in public, I thought it would be easy to always find a private place to feed my child. However, that is not the case. When my child is hungry he is hungry, he cannot wait! It is amazing how being a mother changes you. My first concern now is not what some stranger may think of me, but what is best for my child. If I was not willing to occasionally feed my child in public, I would literally never be able to leave my house. It is sad that breasts have become so sexualized that we have forgotten why we have them.

Posted by: Angela Location: NJ on May 29, 2007 at 11:08 AM
Tammy: A baby only knows now. Not later. When a baby is hungry, he or she needs to be fed now. Babies don't know how to wait. Adults do. Would you make the same comment as in your post if that mother next to you was feeding her child a bottle? What to tell your son? Try something like this: this past weekend a friend's 6 year old son wanted to see to my daughter who was nursing. I simply told him she was eating. No long explainations. She was eating. Period.

Posted by: Judie Location: Wisconsin on May 29, 2007 at 09:58 AM
You have every right to breastfeed your child, but you do not have the right to expose yourself in public. There are many places where you can go to feed your child.It is offensive to me to encounter a woman breastfeeding especially if I have my teenage grandchildren with me. You should have more respect for yourself then to be exposed in public. I"m sure you would object to seeing a woman going topless in public. There is no difference. Please remove yourself from public eyes. Breastfeeding is for the mother and child, not to be displayed for the public.

Posted by: Tammy Location: Madison on May 29, 2007 at 08:57 AM
If you can't tell your 7 year old that the mom is feeding her baby with mom's milk, then you need to read up on how to explain it to your child. A breast fed baby should be able to eat WHENEVER it is hungry and WHEREVER the mother is.

Posted by: Suzanne Location: Fall Creek on May 28, 2007 at 08:59 PM
I think it should be their rights as an ADULT to breastfeed their child WHEREEVER it needs to be done. Would you like to sit for hours AFTER your lunch dinner ect just because people dont want to see you EAT? I think people are hiding to much from their children now adays, why NOT explain to a child what someone else is doing? It should NOT be an inconveniance to EXPLAIN things to your children ESPECIALLY a NURTURING LOVING thing between a MOTHER and her CHILD. Does anyone complain about YOU reading to your child? NO. I think more people need to get a life and stop getting so INVOLVED in ours.

Posted by: sheila Location: ontario on May 28, 2007 at 08:12 PM
Tammy from Wisconsin: Tell your 7-year old the woman is feeding her baby, because that's what breasts are for. Tell him that feeding a human baby any udder milk is tacky and offensive.

Posted by: Crystal Location: Appleton on May 28, 2007 at 05:59 PM
Tammy, do you find all babies eating to be tacky and offensive, or just those that are breastfeeding? Would you feel embarrased to explain to your 7 year old son if a woman bottle fed her baby in front of you? Attitudes like yours are the reason this came up in the first place. Babies need to eat when they're hungry, not when it's convenient for the public.

Posted by: Mrs Chablal Location: Birmingham England on May 28, 2007 at 04:29 PM
I believe a woman should feed wherever she wants too. in response to one of the commnenst below. It is apalling that a mother feels her 7yr old should not be exposed to seeing a woman breastfeeding. Only when other children grow up seeing others breastfeeding would it be considered an acceptable practice. To be shielded could indicate that it is something wrong to do in public. Yes we do see other people eating in hospital clinics and elsewhere. So what is the problem here? It is all people's perceptions. Sadly a woman is also thinking this way.

Posted by: Liana Location: Canada on May 28, 2007 at 04:17 PM
I don't understand how breastfeeding a BABY (who doesn't understand WAITING to be fed) can be offensive or tacky to anyone. Mother's are meant to take care of their children and if a baby needs to eat- they need to eat immediately. a 7 yr old child (or any other person) should be able to understand this is the NORMAL way for a mother to feed her child. Many adults take their coffee/snacks wherever they go and they have the capabilities to understand that sometimes they need to WAIT. How is a baby supposed to understand that at only 4 months old.

Posted by: Donna Location: Brinkman on May 28, 2007 at 02:21 PM
I breastfeed all four of my children and sometimes in public. All you have to do is place a receiving blanket over the exposed area. I would not feel confortable to see someone feeding without some covering.

Posted by: Trista Location: Cameron, Wisconsin on May 28, 2007 at 11:31 AM
I am amazed that breast feeding is still such an issue as the world tries to promote all of us to "think

Posted by: Kara Location: Indiana on May 28, 2007 at 11:07 AM
"Why would one think that it is their right to feed/eat wherever they want?" I find your comment tacky and offensive! Would you take your 4 month old baby to the car to give him a bottle? NO!! There is nothing offensive about feeding a child, whether it be by bottle or breast.

Posted by: Melanie Location: Wisconsin on May 28, 2007 at 10:51 AM
Women should certainly have the right to breast feed, but other people should also have the right to not be made to feel uncomfortable in a public place that they have every right to be in. A lot of people are offended by public breast feeding. I have to agree with Tammy about it being tacky and offensive. I don't think that the hospital did anything wrong. I'm sorry that the woman felt intimidated, but maybe these mothers should take other people's feelings into consideration. They do make breast pumps.

Posted by: Amanda Location: Wisconsin on May 28, 2007 at 09:30 AM
If Tammy reads any more of this I'd just like to say that I would hope you would use the opportunity to educate your child so that someday he can be supportive of HIS wife giving your grandchild the best start in life. Would you have a problem with seeing someone giving thier child a bottle? I doubt it. So your comment about not eating lunch in the clinic means nothing, babies can't wait for thier lunch like we can.

Posted by: PJ Location: Maryland on May 28, 2007 at 07:06 AM
I was shocked by Tammy's comments and feel sorry for her and her son. One sees babies getting their artificial nipples with milk made for a calf or from a soybean as normal and don't have to explain it to your 7 year old son-sad that all those boys will not really know what breasts are for and those young girls will continue to have body hatred issues. Yes, those human milk babies should have the same right that the bottle fed baby does--I guess you never gave your baby a bottle in a public place, right? It is not about you not feeding your son your milk-it is about a baby's right to be fed in public and on another note, I happen to get exhausted by telling my 7 year old daughter about why mothers don't give their babies their milk-instead of bottles of artificial baby milk. Kind of balances out if you let the mother and baby pair who is bonding and eating alone. Hope one day others can get over hating their bodies and others embracing their lactation ability.

Posted by: April Location: Indiana on May 28, 2007 at 12:09 AM
I am totally appalled by a comment left by another viewer. Comparing a baby breastfeeding to an adult or older child eating lunch in a waiting room are completely different things. Babies generally need to eat every 2-4 hours and sometimes there is a need to feed your child wherever you are. It IS the baby's right to eat, and the mother's duty to feed the child. One should not starve their child. If she would have been bottle feeding her child, no one would have batted an eye. So why is it fair for a mother to bottle feed her child, but not breastfeed her child? It is a proven scientific fact that breastmilk is the best thing for babies? Mother's who breastfeed should be applauded for what they do, not put down. Also, what is so hard to explain to our children about breastfeeding? Breasts were made to make milk and feed babies. It is sad that our society views breasts as such sexual objects. Would you rather sit in a waiting room with a screaming, hungry baby? Or would you rather sit with a woman who is very discreetly nourishing her child? Breastfeeding is normal and natural, and the very best for babies. It is because of close minded people that situations like this arise.

Posted by: Amy Location: Texas on May 27, 2007 at 07:24 PM
In response to Tammy I see numerous babies being fed bottles all over public places. I even see children walking around with bottles. So its OK for uneducated people to feed their babies in public but for those of us who follow the recommendations of study after study finding breastfeeding is best for your child we get shamed for doing so in public!! I hope there are many more Kathleens in this world because we need educated people procreating instead of of all the others!!

Posted by: sunnie Location: uniontown, pa on May 27, 2007 at 12:37 PM
Unbelievable! We're in a sad state of affairs when this happens in a hospital.

Posted by: Tammy Location: Wisconsin on May 27, 2007 at 11:21 AM
Why would one think that it is their right to feed/eat wherever they want? Do you see other people sitting around clinics etc. eating their lunches? I do not feel that I should have to sit in the same room with my 7 year old while a woman is breast feeding and have to explain to him what she is doing. I find it to be tacky and offensive. I would think that one would want some privacy while doing this.

Posted by: Laurel Location: Madison on May 27, 2007 at 09:11 AM
I think it's outrageous that an incident like this would happen in a hospital of all places. Where but in a hospital should breastfeeding be more on display as the normal way to feed a baby, certainly not to be hidden away. I really feel so badly for this poor mother. I hope she knows that she is not alone in her experience in this state. Sacred Heart should immediately register it's support for SB 30 and AB 104 that are in the legislature right now that protects a breastfeeding woman's rights!

Posted by: Jenee Location: Green Bay on May 27, 2007 at 08:29 AM
This is why the breastfeeding bill is so important in WI. Then there will be no doubt about a woman's right to breastfeeed her child in a public place.

Posted by: Katie Location: Milwaukee on May 27, 2007 at 08:19 AM
While Wisconsin law exempts breastfeeding mothers from public indecency statutes, there are no laws protecting the right of mothers to breastfeed, and their babies to be fed, in any location they are otherwise authorized to be. Senate Bill 30 and House Bill 104, the Right to Breastfeed Act, will bring Wisconsin in line with 38 states that already have such laws on the books. In addition to educating employees about the needs of breastfeeding babies, officials at Sacred Heart should join the Wisconsin Academy of Pediatrics, the Wisconsin Medical Society, the Wisconsin Association for Perinatal Care, the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services, the Wisconsin Public Health Association, the Wisconsin Association of Local Health Departments and Boards, the Wisconsin Council on Children and Families, Wisconsin Families for Breastfeeding, the Wisconsin Chapter of the American College of Nurse Midwives, the Wisconsin Guild of Midwives, the Wisconsin Dietetic Association and the Hunger Task Force in urging legislators to pass this important piece of legislation.