The mother in these two photos has not been identified, but the message cannot be clearer. This “strong momma” was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer at around 20 weeks pregnant. A few days later, she underwent a left breast mastectomy and started chemotherapy… while pregnant. After she was induced at 36 weeks she ended up giving birth to a healthy baby boy who can only be described as “her miracle baby.”

“She really wanted to breastfeed after having many of her birth choices and preferences taken from her, if only for a short time, because cancer treatments resume when she is discharged from the hospital. After he was born, he latched to her right breast all on his own and the room was full of emotion.”

The empowering photos, featured on Gentle Birth Options, LLC’s Facebook post, have already received more than 300,000 likes and over 60,000 shares. The significance of both photos is pretty apparent, judging by the mother’s expression.

“These images show the incredible strength and love through the art of breastfeeding. Please pray for her and her miracle baby. They have a long road ahead.”

Strong Momma
Mother with breast cancer breastfeeds newborn following her mastectomy. Kate Murray Photography