Fara Patterson

Can you tell us more about your medical background and education?

I began my nursing career at The Hospital for Sick Children. I then moved into working as a public health nurse in maternal and infant health. I’ve taught breastfeeding and infant feeding in the community and at major hospital clinics for the last 20 years.

What inspired you to become a lactation consultant?

I am inspired by my love of connecting with people on a personal level and making a positive difference in their lives. Teaching breastfeeding and infant feeding is very rewarding as it allows me to practise a wide range of nursing skills. It pushes me to think critically and stay current in my field. No two mother-baby journeys are the same, and I am honoured to support my patients.

What do you love the most about being a healthcare provider?

Meeting each new mother and baby dyad is a new adventure. Supporting patients through their journey and seeing each small success is my biggest reward.

What’s your favourite part about practising on Maple?

My favorite part of practising on Maple is the ability to meet and help patients all over Canada. Many people might otherwise be unable to access lactation support.

If you could choose any other career, what would it be?

I still keep Indonesia, the country that I grew up in, as my “home in my heart”. If I had to choose any other career I would love to join the Diplomatic Corps, or be a marine biologist. Living in Ontario, I miss the ocean every day. It’s a good thing I live near Lake Ontario!