Preserving Breast Milk During a Power Outage
When Alexandra Luttrell-Freeman lost power to her home during Hurricane Beryl, her immediate concern was the 1,600 ounces of breast milk stored in her freezers. With just 48 hours before the milk would spoil, she faced the daunting task of finding a solution to save the precious supply she had diligently pumped for her daughter over the past eight months.
The Race Against Time
As one of the millions affected by the power outage caused by Hurricane Beryl, Luttrell-Freeman anxiously watched the clock as CenterPoint Energy worked to restore power to the area. With each passing hour, the risk of her carefully collected breast milk going to waste loomed larger.
A Community Coming Together
In a desperate search for options, Luttrell-Freeman turned to her community and was met with unexpected support. Through a local mom chat group, she connected with strangers who offered to store her milk in their freezers, showcasing the power of solidarity in times of need.
The Importance of Preparedness
As breast milk can only be stored for a limited time without power, the experience highlighted the need for breastfeeding mothers to have contingency plans in place for emergencies. Whether it be through sharing resources or donating milk to milk banks, being proactive can make a significant difference in ensuring the well-being of infants in crisis situations.
