Janice Sampson

Job Title
Lactation Consultant

Department/Location
VCH Coastal – Public Health Early Years. I am currently in the position of Lactation Consultant with North Shore Public Health.

How long have you worked at VCH?
Since 1982. I have been in a variety of positions from staff nurse and educator at BCCH to Head Nurse and Clinician positions at LGH in NICU and Pediatrics.
I have been lucky to enjoy a consultant role in the community now for 14 years.

Tell us what you do at VCH in one or two sentences:
I support breastfeeding mothers and infants by providing one to one clinic/home visit consultation and ongoing support to help mother’s reach their feeding/breastfeeding goals.
I work in partnership with nurses, physicians and midwives and families. I also support/teach public health nurses and health care students so they may support and assist mothers and infants as much as possible.

What’s your favourite thing about your work?
The first Breastfeeding Challenge and Celebration held in 2003.
75 North Shore families joined us to increase public awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding and celebrate their dedication to breastfeeding.
It was wonderful being a part of something so inspiring!

I’m helping to organize the 2017 North Shore Breastfeeding Challenge which is on Sept 30 at the HOpe Centre. Breastfeeding mothers, infants and families welcome!

Which True North goal does your work contribute to the most?
Promote better health for our communities

One thing we might be surprised to learn about you:
I am a breast cancer survivor. Also that I love my work!! How many people can say that? There may be days when I get up and feel that I would rather watch the news and drink coffee but when I get to work, I love it. Being off sick for while and returning to it has made me appreciate it even more!

Three things you always have in your fridge:
Eggs, yummy cheeses, and chipotle mayo!

Who or what inspires you?
The families I meet inspire me every day. I am consistently amazed at their perseverence and their desire to do the best for their infants. It’s what makes my job so worthwhile.

Most healthy habit:
Walking. Having a dog has helped make this a “habit”.
I believe it is the best way to stay mobile as we age.

Favourite vacation spot:
Anywhere hot and sunny!