Meet Erika

Erika was a first time mother when she joined the group of pregnant women at the El Papayal Maternity Home. Much of her time was spent reading the project manual, which she calls “the little book.” She said, “It is loaded with a lot of information and good advice,” she said. “What has interested me the most about this project is how it explains to us the growth of our baby, every month, and the changes that mothers experience –especially since everything is new for those of us who will be mothers for the first time.” For Erika, the information is not the only important element of the project. She adds: “The program gives us security and makes us feel that we are important – that our baby is not only special for us but for everyone who is in the program.” With her baby in her arms, Erika shares with all the women in her community the importance of pre-birth care and breastfeeding. “It is something that only a mother can feel and I feel that I am protecting my baby. I know that exclusive breastfeeding is the best thing I can do for her. I thank the project for helping us better understand motherhood and the great responsibility that lies in our hands.”