When Zeeland native Tate Bonnema returned from Zambia at 34 weeks to deliver her baby at Holland Hospital’s Boven Birth Center, she found the entire experience calm and supportive. From the kindness of her nurses to the encouragement of her obstetrician during labor, every detail made her feel cared for. As a first-time mom, Tate didn’t know what to expect, but the team guided her through each step, keeping her comfortable and confident. She describes it simply: “It was amazing. I couldn’t have asked for a better birth experience.”
The weeks after brought new challenges. Painful latching, clogged ducts, and mastitis left Tate anxious and frustrated with her breastfeeding experience. With guidance from Holland Hospital’s lactation consultant Sarah Moelker, she built a strong foundation and joined Holland Hospital’s Breastfeeding Connections group.
In that welcoming circle of moms, Tate gained practical advice and lasting friendships. “It was nice to connect with other moms. Being a new mom, you’re trying to figure this all out, and trying to figure out how to get back into normal life again. It was nice to have the connection and a group to look forward to,” she said.
Surrounded by support, Tate realized that while breastfeeding requires patience, she already had the instincts she needed. During those sessions, Sarah reminded her of one of the most valuable lessons: trust your mom gut. That encouragement gave Tate the confidence to lean into her intuition and embrace motherhood with greater assurance.
Tate’s journey shows that birth and breastfeeding thrive with support, compassion, and trust. At Holland Hospital’s Boven Birth Center, she discovered a team dedicated to caring for her and her family. Through Holland Hospital’s Breastfeeding Connections group, she found the confidence to trust herself and grow as a mother.
After such a positive experience, Tate plans to return to Holland Hospital for the birth of all her future children. “I’ll plan to have all my kids there. The people made it such an amazing experience,” Tate shares. “The doctors, nurses, lactation consultants and volunteers… everyone was so kind, warm and servant hearted. I trusted they wanted the best for me, my baby and my family.”
Learn more about Holland Hospital’s Boven Birth Center and the support available for new moms at hollandhospital.org/bovenbirthcenter.