For Immediate Release: July 26, 2010

Contact: Janet Tolley (217) 544-6464, ext. 30395

15th annual World Breastfeeding Walk is August 7

 

Springfield — Springfield’s 15th annual World Breastfeeding Week Walk will be held August 7 at Henson Robinson Zoo on East Lake Drive. The public is invited to enjoy this family event to show their support for breastfeeding. Admission to the zoo is free from 8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. Illinois Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Association (IADDA) will receive the Best Business Award at 10:00 a.m., followed by brief remarks by WICS-TV’s Elizabeth Wooley.  A ceremonial stroller walk around the zoo will be at 10:30 a.m. The walk is sponsored by St. John’s Children’s Hospital and the West Central Illinois Breastfeeding Task Force. Free gift bags will be given to the first 100 families.

Similar walks organized by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action are occurring across the world in an effort to remind everyone about the health benefits of breastfeeding and highlight the increased acceptance for breastfeeding in public among Americans. 

According to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services' Office on Women's Health, breast milk contains more than 200 infection-fighting agents that cannot be replicated. Studies show that babies who aren't breastfed exclusively for the first six months are more likely to develop allergies and obesity in childhood. They are also more likely to suffer more colds, flu, ear infections, and other respiratory illnesses, and make more visits to the doctor.

For more information, contact Janet Tolley, St. John’s Children’s Hospital at 544-6464, ext. 30395.