Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital Introduces Pasteurized Donor Human Milk Program for Newborns

Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital (LCRH) is proud to announce the launch of its pasteurized donor human milk program, offering a vital resource for newborns in our region. Research has shown that babies born too small, too sick, or too soon benefit from an exclusive diet of human milk to support their growth and development. Human breast milk provides essential nutrients and offers protection against illness and infection, which is crucial for newborns, especially those born prematurely or with illness.

This program ensures that pasteurized donor breast milk is available for babies in need when a mother’s milk is unavailable or needs supplementation. This service will be offered at no cost throughout the hospital’s labor and delivery unit, providing crucial support for mothers and newborns.

Elizabeth Garland, BSN, RN, CLC, LCRH Director of Women’s and Children’s services, shares, “Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital is committed to enhancing neonatal care by providing newborns access to the best nutrition available. Introducing donor milk strengthens our support for mothers who wish to breastfeed, offering peace of mind to families that their babies receive optimal care.”

The milk is sourced from carefully screened donors through a partnership with The Milk Bank, a non-profit tissue bank that provides safe, pasteurized donor milk to hospitals and homes across the region. The Milk Bank collects, analyzes, pasteurizes, freezes, and distributes donor milk, ensuring it meets the highest safety standards.

Freedom Kolb, CEO of The Milk Bank, said, “Thanks to Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital’s leadership, their patients have access to the lifesaving impact of human milk. Their commitment to babies is a bright spot for infant health and will no doubt save lives, improve health outcomes, and reduce healthcare expenditures.”

Brittni Karnes, a new mom to baby Preston and the first patient to utilize the program, states, "The Milk Bank was truly a lifesaver for us. Early on, we faced challenges with my son’s blood sugar levels, and the donor breast milk was the perfect supplement. The care and support from the nurses and the entire Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital team were incredible. There were moments when I felt like giving up, but their encouragement and guidance helped me push through. I’m deeply grateful to the women’s team at the hospital and The Milk Bank for everything they did for us.”

The pasteurized donor breast milk program launched on September 18, 2024. It will allow every baby at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital a better chance to thrive with donated human milk. This program underscores Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital’s commitment to advancing neonatal care and supporting families during the crucial early stages of their child’s life.

For more information about The Milk Bank program and neonatal care at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital, please visit our website.

Those interested in milk donation can start the approval process by going to themilkbank.org.

Britti Karnes with baby Preston, LCRH's first recipient of donor milk from The Milk Bank