Big Brother Liam helping with the milk!
When Abigail gave birth to her first child, Liam, she began a beautiful breastfeeding and pumping journey. Now 20 months old, Liam continues to thrive thanks to the strong start he received through his mother’s milk. For Abigail and her family, breastmilk symbolized nourishment, bonding, and love.
So, when they found out they were expecting a second baby, they looked forward to continuing that tradition. But halfway through her pregnancy, Abigail received devastating news. Her daughter Layla had been diagnosed with thanatophoric dysplasia, a rare and typically fatal skeletal disorder.
Despite the heartbreaking diagnosis, Abigail carried Layla with profound love and courage. Layla was born at 34 weeks and spent her only day Earth-side wrapped in the arms of her family, surrounded by tenderness.
In the days that followed, Abigail’s milk came in. Though Layla’s life was heartbreakingly brief, her presence continues to ripple outward. With deep purpose and love, Abigail chose to donate her breastmilk to help other babies. These are infants she may never meet, but whose lives could be changed by each drop.
“I knew her milk was best served helping other babies have the greatest shot at life,” Abigail shared.
Her decision to donate became a powerful act of healing. It was a way to transform loss into impact and grief into generosity.
Why Milk Donation Matters After Infant Loss
Breastmilk is a life-saving resource, especially for premature and medically fragile babies in NICUs across the country. When bereaved mothers like Abigail choose to donate, they offer more than nutrition. They offer connection, comfort, and the legacy of a child gone too soon.
Abigail’s story is one of many that show how love can continue even after loss. Milk donation can be part of the healing process, and every ounce helps give another baby a stronger start.
How You Can Help or Get Support
If you are a grieving parent with a milk supply and are considering donating, or if you want to support the mission of helping babies thrive through safe, pasteurized donor human milk, please contact us at Mothers’ Milk Bank of Western Great Lakes. Our compassionate team is here to walk beside you every step of the way. Click here for more information about milk donation after loss.
