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. Shenell humbly serves as Chair of the Springfield DHHS Maternal Child Health Commission and co- founding member of the Breastfeeding Community Action Circle. She is a former WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counselor of 4 years, obtained her Certified Lactation Counselor credential in August 2015, became an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant in January 2019, and most recently now a Certified Perinatal Educator. She is honored to be on the Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition board of directors, a USBCs CRASH Committee member, and a member of National Association of Professional and Peer Lactation Supporters of Color (NAPPLSC), Mass Lactation Consultant Association (MLCA), and the Boston Black Breastfeeding Week Committee. Shenell continues to lead lactation advocacy efforts in Springfield including annual National Breastfeeding Month and Black Breastfeeding Week celebrations, in collaboration with the Mayors office and many community partners. 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 lactation education and support in her community and beyond.