Maternity hospital's exhibition is well supported
Tipperary University Hospital’s (TippUH) Maternity Directorate, in collaboration with local primary and secondary schools, recently hosted a public awareness exhibition at the Showgrounds Shopping Centre in Clonmel. The event, focused on supporting infant feeding, marked a significant milestone in promoting the importance of breastfeeding and its benefits for both infants and mothers.
The exhibition, a first-of-its-kind initiative led by Ms Claire Ferris, the Infant Feeding Co-ordinator at TippUH, garnered an enthusiastic response from the community, particularly young people. Resource packets for both primary and secondary school students were developed to include age-appropriate facts about breastfeeding and an art competition was held for primary school students. It was a resounding success, with an impressive total of 194 entries from students across eight local schools.
Ms Ferris reached out to the President of Ireland's wife, Sabina Higgins, as she was aware of her interest in the subject and she was so impressed with the initiative that she has offered a class trip to Áras an Uachtaráin for the winning primary school class. Many local businesses have followed suit, offering wonderful prizes and experiences for the participating students.
Speaking about the exhibition and the importance of breastfeeding, Claire Ferris stated: "Breastfeeding offers unparalleled benefits for both infants and mothers. It provides essential nutrients for a baby's growth and development while fostering a unique bond between mother and child. Additionally, breastfeeding has been linked to a reduced risk of various health issues in both mothers and infants, making it a cornerstone of optimal infant care. Our exhibition aimed to raise awareness of these advantages and highlight the vital role that local schools can play in educating the next generation about the benefits of breastfeeding."
The event not only served as a platform to educate the community but also emphasized the importance of collaboration between healthcare institutions and educational facilities. The exhibition showcased the commitment of Tipperary University Hospital Maternity Directorate in promoting infant health and well-being while fostering a supportive environment for mothers.