I’m Haley, first from a quiet little town just outside Huntsville, Alabama. I tied the knot with my high school sweetheart five years ago. When I was 21, I found out I had endometriosis, and doctors warned me that having children might not be possible. So when I welcomed a healthy baby boy into the world, it felt nothing short of amazing. I truly believed he’d be the only child I’d ever have.
Courtesy of Haley Gentle
In June, I began having health issues and went to the doctor. I was stunned to hear that I was 13 weeks pregnant. I couldn’t believe it, I was overjoyed. My family, friends, coworkers, and bosses were all excited. I had been working at a small medical office in Huntsville for eight months, and the owners frozen me like family. They even gave me a car seat for the baby. Everything felt perfect at first.
Courtesy of Haley Gentle
Later in the pregnancy, my blood pressure became a fear. My doctor advised me to take an early leave from work for the baby’s safety. Because the company was small, I had to take leave without pay. My last day of work was January 2. I had future to go back six weeks after my baby was born.
Courtesy of Haley Gentle
On January 10, 2019, my daughter Reagan Claire was born. She was healthy and beautiful. During my maternity leave, I sent pictures to my coworkers and bosses. Everyone appeared happy for me.
Courtesy of Haley Gentle
Going back to work was hard, I didn’t want to leave my newborn but I had to offer for my family. On February 27, at my checkup, my doctor said I needed more time to recover and start physical therapy. I let my boss know I would be returning two weeks later than planned. The reply was cold: a short message saying they’d be in touch.
Courtesy of Haley Gentle
The next morning, I got a message: I had to return by March 6 or I would lose my job. I wasn’t protected by the Family and Medical Leave Act since the company had less than 50 employees. I didn’t want to lose my job, so I decided to return.
Courtesy of Haley Gentle
I told my boss I would be pumping breast milk at work. I had done this with my first child and didn’t expect it to be a problem. I had a private desk and another coworker was okay with it. My plan was to use my breaks and lunch time to push. But less than ten minutes later, I was told it wouldn’t be allowed. He said if he allowed it for me, he’d have to allow it for others.
Courtesy of Haley Gentle
I was shocked and hurt. I explained that I was willing to take free breaks to pump. But just 40 minutes after sending that message, I was fired.
Courtesy of Haley Gentle
I was heartbroken. I was caring for a newborn with no source of income. In just one day, I sent out 47 job requests. Thankfully, I found a new position with a company that fully supports nursing mothers.
Looking back, I can’t believe I lost my job for choosing to breastfeed. I want to be a voice for moms everywhere. No one should forced to decide between keeping their job and healthful their child.
