New hospital to host breastfeeding feat

Hundreds of mothers all over the world will take part in a synchronised breastfeeding event on Wednesday to promote Mother Nature's best feeding method.

This is the first time that countries all over the world will be participating in the same event, involving multiple sites, including Malta.

Children for Breastfeeding Inc. proposed and was authorised by the Guinness World Records Ltd to initiate this international event.

The purpose of the activity is to encourage breastfeeding everywhere in the world as a global prayer of thanksgiving for the gift of motherhood, while promoting breastfeeding as the perfect way for nurturing the baby.

This attempt will be made with the spirit of cooperation, rather than competition, to advance the breastfeeding movement worldwide.

Countries will be grouped according to time zones and each site in every country will record the number of mothers breastfeeding at a point in time on Wednesday morning.

Locally, the event is being organised by the non-governmental organisation Malta Breastfeeding Foundation, in collaboration with the Health Promotion Department and Mater Dei Hospital.

The foundation is encouraging mothers of all nationalities to bring the child they are breastfeeding to Mater Dei Hospital on Wednesday at 9.15 a.m. to take part in this event.

Mothers who have no transport are encouraged to catch the 8 a.m. bus to Mater Dei. Also, while mothers may bring their pushchair, no bottles, teats, or pacifiers will be allowed. Nappy changing facilities will be available.

The event will be over by 11.40 a.m. and mothers are encouraged to register their interest in participating in this event by calling on 2137 1700/9928 6862. Volunteers who wish to help out can also contact the foundation.