The Olympics are back, a statement that feels surreal amidst the ongoing global health crisis. After being postponed in 2020 due to the pandemic, the Games are returning, but they won’t be quite the same. One of the most significant changes is the absence of overseas spectators. This year, foreign visitors, including family members of athletes, are banned from attending. This ban extends to the infants of breastfeeding athletes and coaches, leaving nursing moms with a heart-wrenching choice between their sport and their babies.
“This policy is harmful to athlete mothers and coaches,” said Jamie Collins, CEO of a company dedicated to supporting working moms. “The stress of competing while separated from an infant is unacceptable.” Many athletes share this sentiment. Long-distance runner Mia Johnson, who has a four-month-old baby still breastfeeding, voiced her concerns, stating that her child’s presence is crucial for her performance. Similarly, renowned athlete Angela Roberts has hinted that she might withdraw from the Olympics if she can’t bring her young daughter along.
There is hope that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) will reconsider its policy regarding infants and young children. In the meantime, the breast milk shipping service, Milk Stork, is stepping in to provide support for breastfeeding athletes and coaches, allowing them to send their milk back home from Japan. This service enables traveling moms to easily transport their milk, ensuring their babies at home are well-fed. All that’s needed is to pump and freeze the milk, and Milk Stork handles the logistics, providing pre-printed labels and necessary paperwork for international shipping.
While the Olympic Village presents additional challenges, Milk Stork is ready to tackle these obstacles to assist nursing athletes. The idea behind Milk Stork came from Collins’ own experiences as a breastfeeding mother of twins, who found it burdensome to transport her pumped milk through airports. “It shouldn’t be this difficult,” she reflected, emphasizing that athletes shouldn’t have to choose between their passion and their family.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact events globally, and while the ban on international spectators is likely rooted in public health concerns, it’s vital to remember that breastfeeding infants are not just spectators—they are essential parts of their mothers’ lives. “When women have to choose between competing and caring for their babies, it’s a loss for everyone,” Collins stated.
Supporting nursing athletes isn’t just about their individual needs; it’s crucial for society as a whole. “Families should be seen as a source of strength, not a hindrance,” Collins added. The partnership between Milk Stork and an organization focused on helping athlete moms highlights the importance of maintaining connections with family while pursuing athletic excellence.
For breastfeeding athletes or coaches heading to the Olympics, reaching out for support is encouraged.
If you’re interested in related topics, check out this blog post here. For a deeper understanding of pregnancy and home insemination, visit this excellent resource here. Additionally, for comprehensive insights on car seat safety, see this site.
Summary
Olympic athletes who are breastfeeding face a distressing choice between competing and caring for their babies due to a ban on infants attending the Games. Advocates argue this policy is detrimental, calling for change while offering support through milk shipping services. The situation highlights broader societal issues regarding working mothers and the importance of family in achieving greatness.