About Us

Shenell Ford BS,IBCLC,CPE is founder of the community based lactation practice, Heart2Heartbeat Lactation & Wellness, in Springfield Ma. Her greatest joy are her sons, Jeyceir and Jezari. She is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, Certified Perinatal Educator, and Childbirth Educator Apprentice, and overall lover of lactation. She finds joy in serving on various boards and committees including the Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition Board of Directors, US Breastfeeding Committee CRASH, and as Co-Chair of the Springfield DHHS Maternal Child Health Commission. Shenell continues to lead lactation advocacy efforts in Springfield including annual National Breastfeeding Month, Black Breastfeeding Week, and Black Maternal Health Week celebrations, in collaboration with the Mayors office and many community partners. In June 2023, Shenell was recognized as one of Masslive’s Emerging Black Leaders and in April 2024, received the Springfield DHHS Commissioners Award for her efforts in advancing lactation. She is an inspired and fiercely passionate advocate for prenatal and lactating families. Shenell is committed to increasing the diversity of and equitable access to perinatal education and support in her community and beyond.