Marina at Therapy Matters is the REAL DEAL! When my son with Down Syndrome was two weeks old, he…read morewas not gaining weight as needed. I began to triple feed, which was effective, but not ultimately sustainable for me. I wanted to give breastfeeding a good solid try but I didn't know what to do next, and I was tired and discouraged.
Per our pediatrician's recommendation, I pursued speech offices for help. I contacted nine, seven of which either did not get back to me or said they were unable to help. Thankfully, one office directed me to Marina.
When I first spoke with Marina, she assured me that she had worked with babies with Down Syndrome before, that my goals were completely doable, and that together we would find a plan that worked for my son and for our family. Her confidence and professionalism gave me such reassurance and hope! I felt like she cared about my situation as much as I did.
Before our first meeting, I filled out a questionnaire with questions so specific that I could tell Marina would be able to get to the bottom of things. When we met in person, Marina approached things calmly, professionally, confidently, and kindly. Together we clarified my goals multiple times to make sure that everything we were doing would work towards that end.
Marina didn't give us simple textbook answers; she listened carefully and thoughtfully and spoke to our unique needs and desires. Because of her training in lactation consulting, speech-language pathology, AND feeding therapy, Marina is a one-stop-shop and is able to think about issues from all angles and get to the heart of matters! (This is why we refer to her as the Queen in our home).
After I met with Marina, I came home armed with a specific plan and resources to help move me towards my goal of exclusive breastfeeding. Through various supplies, exercises, and changes to my technique and routine, my son gradually got better and better, and I am thrilled that he now exclusively breastfeeds and is growing right on track! Marina was there every step of the way in the weeks following our meeting to answer my questions, cheerlead me, and guide me through the process.
Thank you, Marina, for believing in me and my son, and for giving my son a running start into his future through the gift of breastfeeding, giving him not only the standard benefits, but providing him with a solid foundation so important for babies with Down Syndrome.
We will always feel indebted to Marina! Thank you thank you thank you!
