Newfoundland and Labrador has some of the most talented people in Canada. The Atlantic province’s comedians, singers and songwriters entertain the rest of the country and several have become household names here.
Now, some of these gifted and very funny people are putting their talents to work to encourage more new mothers to breastfeed.
In a video campaign, they explain why “they did” mothers and fathers alike. People like curling champion Brad Gushue, writer, actor and comedienne Mary Walsh and Cathy Jones, extol the benefits of nursing for both mother and child.
Baby-friendly Newfoundland & Labrador is an important campaign as the province has the lowest rate of breastfeeding in Canada at just 68% of women giving it a try. The national average in Canada is 87%.
For women who may be unfamiliar and uncomfortable with the idea of breastfeeding, or may be lacking support in the decision, the humorous video stresses the lifelong benefits to the child.
The videos and posters are now being distributed to hospitals and health centres in the province, while an effort is being made to fund TV commercial versions. Meanwhile, other provinces in Canada and indeed other countries are enquiring about using the videos as well.
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