Edwina Froehlich of Inverness, Illinois, co-founder of La Leche League International and co-author of The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, which has over 2 million copies in print, died at 5 am on Sunday, June 8, 2008 at Northwest Community hospital in Arlington Heights after suffering a stroke on May 25. Read LLL's full tribute.
API's membership and staff are saddened by the loss of La Leche League co-founder Edwina Froehlich, who passed away last week. Edwina was instrumental in the education and promotion of breastfeeding and our condolences go out to her family and friends.
API co-founder Barbara Nicholson shared her thoughts on Edwina's life and legacy:
We are tremendously saddened to hear of the passing of Edwina Froehlich, our dear friend and loving mother to thousands! Through her tireless efforts, she and the other Founders of La Leche League International, made it possible for millions of parents and professionals to get accurate information and support to breastfeed. From her dining room table to a worldwide organization, La Leche League grew over the years into the most trusted breastfeeding organization. She exemplified what La Leche League was all about; the capacity to share the most up-to-date medical information with warmth, nurturance and wisdom. Thousands of Leaders and parents can testify that hearing her speak was an unforgettable experience--she had a treasure trove of stories from her own mothering experiences, and the experience of counseling so many parents. She will be missed, but we are all so inspired by her example! Even in to her 90's she was speaking, advocating, and enjoying life to the fullest. To the Froehlich family we send our deepest love and gratitude for sharing their wonderful mother and grandmother with us all.
Janet Jendron, API Board Member, LLLI Alumnae Association, former LLLI Board Member, offered these thoughts:
There are no words to describe the impact that I believe Edwina Froehlich had on my life and the lives of many others. She was one of the most balanced people I've ever known. She was always a great listener, yet was able to share herself candidly. She combined vision with attention to the details of the moment. She never missed an opportunity to talk about her wonderful family - sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren, without any sense of self-pride or "taking credit." She was fiercely independent and still humble. She shared her faith in words and actions and attitude, without judgment of others whose spirituality might be different. She was open to new and lofty ideas, yet still grounded in the practical things of daily life. Every moment with her seemed somehow cosmic to me, and I feel her spirit and presence still.
You can read more memories and see pictures of Edwina, including an incredible video taken shortly over a month ago at http://www.carolinasunshine.org/Edwina/edwina.html.
Thank you, Edwina, for all that you did. You will be remembered fondly by everyone at API.