Mass PPD Fund 2022: Shenell Ford
Breastfeeding Awareness Month & Black Breastfeeding Week 2022: Shenell Ford
August 2022 | Interviewed and edited by Jessie Colbert, Executive Director, Mass. PPD Fund
Shenell Ford, BS, IBCLC, CPE, founder of Heart2Heartbeat Lactation & Wellness, has partnered with the Mass. PPD Fund since 2019. Her work centers on expanding access to culturally responsive lactation care and mental health-informed support for Black and Brown families.
Her Personal Breastfeeding Journey
Shenell’s commitment to breastfeeding began with her own motherhood. With limited knowledge but strong curiosity, she leaned into education and WIC support. Her first experience was smooth—but with her second, she faced significant challenges. A lack of visible support and missed opportunities for care in the hospital motivated her to lead change in her community.
How Her Career Began
Shenell’s path started as a peer breastfeeding counselor. Discovering that lactation support was a viable career, she pursued her CLC and soon after, her IBCLC certification. Her mission became clear: ensure that historically marginalized families receive culturally attuned and equitable breastfeeding support.
Breastfeeding and Mental Health
According to Shenell, breastfeeding strengthens both emotional and chemical bonds between parent and child. She highlights its power to decrease postpartum depression and reinforce self-worth, offering a grounding presence during moments of parental doubt.
Barriers to Breastfeeding
Two key challenges stand out: access to services and equity in delivery. Shenell stresses the need for representation, welcoming spaces, and true community voice in service design. Accessibility isn’t just physical—it must also feel culturally safe.
What She Loves About Being an IBCLC
Shenell finds deep joy in watching families succeed. Whether it’s a text, photo, or success story, she feels honored to serve as a guide and cheerleader. Her role as a gatekeeper for access and trust is something she embraces wholeheartedly.
Advice to New Parents
Shenell encourages grace and trust. “Lean into those you love, trust your instincts, and just try. Reach out to someone. You can do it—and you don’t have to do it alone.”
Lactation Resources
About Shenell Ford
Founder & Lead Lactation Consultant
Shenell is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) with over 10 years of experience supporting families in their breastfeeding journey.
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