While breastfeeding rates have steadily increased from 2014 to 2021, breastfeeding can still be a challenge for many parents.
To help parents navigate their breastfeeding journey, Akron Children’s Breastfeeding Medicine department has outpatient lactation consultants to provide advice and support.
If you’re a breastfeeding parent and need support, you can make an appointment with our outpatient lactation consultants.
Meet the Akron Children’s Outpatient Lactation Consultants
Samantha Lavender, RN, MSN, IBCLC
Why did you choose to come to Akron Children’s? I am very passionate about community access to lactation care and think this program is such an amazing resource for eastern Ohio families.
Make an appointment with Samantha online
What do you enjoy most about helping breastfeeding parents? I love the education aspect of lactation care and helping parents to feel empowered in their feeding choices.
What is one thing you’d like breastfeeding parents to know? There are so many ways to be successful with lactation and I can help make a plan that works for you and your family!
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not in the office? I enjoy being outside: biking, roller skating, swimming, running- usually with my husband and four kids. I recently have started learning how to dance in roller skates which has been challenging but very fun!
Sarah Pupillo, RN, BSN, CLC
Why did you choose to come to Akron Children’s? I knew outpatient breastfeeding support is where I wanted to be, so when I found out the hospital was starting this program, I was so excited! I knew this would be a wonderful place to work, and it most definitely has been! 
What do you enjoy most about helping breastfeeding parents? I enjoy helping breastfeeding parents develop an individual plan that aligns with that family’s goals and lifestyle, working through that plan together during follow up visits, and then watching as they successfully reach their goals.
Make an appointment with Sarah online
What is one thing you’d like breastfeeding parents to know? No issue is too small or insignificant to ask for help. All of us in breastfeeding medicine are in this because we love supporting families like you. We don’t want you to struggle alone or to wait to ask for help, because you think whatever difficulty you are facing is not important enough. We are all passionate about breastfeeding support, and we’re here for you!
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not in the office? When I’m not working, I love to spend time with my husband and 2 kids, especially if that means we are enjoying a beautiful day outside. Baking is also at the top of my list of favorite things to do. Sharing those baked goods with friends and family is extra special to me.
Kristie Smith, RN, CLC
Why did you choose to come to Akron Children’s? I chose to join the Akron Children’s family because they had a lactation position open within the pediatric office in my hometown.
What do you enjoy most about helping breastfeeding parents? I love connecting with
parents and empowering them to make educated decisions regarding care for their children. When parents overcome a challenge, everything clicks into place, and they feel relief, reassurance, and hope that they can care for their child in the way they choose – that is the most satisfying moment.
Make an appointment with Kristie online
What is one thing you’d like breastfeeding parents to know? I want breastfeeding parents to know that while each person’s path on the breastfeeding journey is different and unique to their family unit, they are not alone. Also, each child has their own story, whether birth, breastfeeding or milestones, and they are all special and individualized. Breastfeeding is not always the easiest path, but it can be very rewarding. It’s worth investing the time to learn the process, overcome challenges and meet others on this journey.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not in the office? I love spending time doing gardening, photography and reading, as well as watching my kids and grandkids participate in sports and being active outdoors with my family & friends.
If you need breastfeeding support, make an appointment with Samantha, Sarah or Kristie.
