At Mother’s Milk Bank Northeast, every donor has a unique story—and Anna’s is all about compassion, determination, and paying it forward. As a mom, a healthcare worker, and a donor milk recipient turned milk donor, Anna shares how family, work, and generosity of spirit inspire her to help babies across the Northeast . . .
Can you tell us a little about yourself and your family?
I’m 25 years old and live in New Hampshire with my husband and two kids. My daughter, Thea, is four, and my son, Jack, is just six weeks old. I’ve worked as a licensed nursing assistant on a labor & delivery unit for four years.
What inspired you to become a milk donor?
Working at a hospital that utilizes donor milk from Mothers’ Milk Bank Northeast, I know just how important a resource it is – especially for our most fragile babies.
I also used donor milk as a supplement with both of my children during our hospital stays. During my second pregnancy I knew pumping would be our main feeding plan. What I didn’t expect was how rapidly my “stash” would grow.
I was producing more than my baby was eating and quickly becoming overwhelmed – along with our freezer! Once I realized I had an oversupply, I knew exactly where I wanted it to go. The process of becoming a donor was much easier than I expected and made the experience even more pleasant.
Pumping and donating milk is a true labor of love. What motivates you to keep going?
By donating to an accredited milk bank like Mothers’ Milk Bank Northeast, I know I’m helping both healthy and medically fragile babies who need a safe source of nutrition. That alone keeps me going. Of course, it’s also incredibly rewarding to think that my milk might end up at the very hospital where I work.
How does it feel knowing your donated milk might help a baby at your own hospital?
There’s a real possibility that a baby I help care for is nourished by milk I donated. That’s an amazing, full-circle feeling.
Have your children been involved in your milk donation journey?
Absolutely! My daughter, Thea, is my biggest little helper. She fills my water bottle and brings me snacks during pumping sessions. She also helped pack up and drop off our first donation. It’s a real family effort.
What has surprised you most about becoming a milk donor?
When you know just how great an impact your milk can make, it’s exciting to see the ounces add up. Pumping and donating give me a kind of “runner’s high.” This journey is long and time-consuming, but so worth it.
As someone who works in Labor & Delivery, what impact have you seen donor milk have?
Donor milk plays a huge role at the hospital – sometimes before the baby is even born!
During admission, we talk about feeding plans, and when we mention donor milk is available, we see patients light up. Most don’t realize it’s an option, but it offers incredible peace of mind knowing there’s a safe alternative if needed.
What do you wish more people knew about donor milk?
That a little goes a very long way. A single ounce might not seem like much, but it can provide multiple feedings for a baby. And for a NICU baby, with such limited options to help them safely grow bigger and stronger, that can mean everything
If you could share a message with a family receiving your milk, what would you say?
My life is filled with babies – at work and at home. There’s nothing I’m more passionate about. Knowing I can help nourish little lives and alleviate a tremendous source of stress for families during a time of need is a feeling unlike any other. I hope my milk brings your baby strength and offers you peace of mind.
One for me, you, and the NICU too!
You don’t have to donate milk to help fill tiny bellies. Just $35 provides roughly 20 feedings for babies in need. Ready to give the gift of health and hope?
