In this special episode for HSE National Breastfeeding Awareness Week, we welcome Lynn, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Infant Feeding and Lactation at Sligo University Hospital. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), Lynn’s dedication to supporting mothers and babies has been recognised through national healthcare awards and nominations. She reflects on the power of breastfeeding, the difference that timely help and encouragement can make for mothers, and the vital role of midwives and nurses in supporting and sustaining breastfeeding journeys. This conversation highlights the impact of skin-to-skin contact, the progress made in increasing breastfeeding rates in Sligo’s maternity services, and the compassion and commitment that drive positive change for families. For more information on Breastfeeding supports in your area, please visit the dedicated HSE page here: https://tinyurl.com/mtum72w6

In this episode of CNME Connects, we delve into “The Power of Pause” — exploring how emotional regulation, self-awareness, and purposeful silence can transform communication. Drawing on real-world examples from healthcare settings, we discuss how taking a moment before responding can reduce reactive decisions, enhance empathy, and create safer, more compassionate interactions for patients and colleagues alike.

Listeners will gain insights into:

• Why the pause matters

• How self-awareness and emotional regulation improve decision-making

• Practical tips to use silence as an active tool for connection and understanding

If you’ve listened to this episode and it has raised questions about your own mental health, please speak to your GP or a trusted health professional. Support is also available 24/7 from:

• Samaritans Ireland – freephone 116 123 | www.samaritans.ie

• Pieta House – www.pieta.ie

• HSE YourMentalHealth – www.yourmentalhealth.ie

Taking care of yourself is as important as caring for others — and sometimes, the first step is pausing

In this episode of CNME Connects, Mary Durkin sits down with Fr. Brian Conlon, Hospital Chaplain in an acute hospital in the northwest of Ireland, to explore what a typical day in chaplaincy looks like. Brian reflects on the importance of human connection, compassion, and presence—especially at times when patients and families are at their most vulnerable. He shares how the chaplain’s role offers reassurance, a listening ear, and a reminder that no one is alone in their moments of need.

The conversation also touches on themes of attention, healing, hope, and resilience, with Brian drawing inspiration from a number of books, including:

• Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention by Johann Hari

• Getting Better by Michael Rosen

• Dancing at Lughnasa by Brian Friel

• The Signs of Happiness by Brendan Kelly

• Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan

A powerful reference in the conversation is the moving https://youtu.be/eKToIrezxPw highlighting the lifelong impact of care, encouragement, and belief in another person.

This episode is both heartfelt and thought-provoking, offering insight into the unique role of hospital chaplaincy and reminding us of the profound value of listening, compassion, and human connection in healthcare.