CHEER CHAMPION OF THE WEEK: TAMMY DOHERTY, RNC-MNN, IBCLC

Tammy Doherty, RNC-MNN, IBCLC, is a dedicated maternal-newborn nurse and lactation professional with over two decades of experience supporting mothers and babies through postpartum and newborn care. With a deep passion for helping families thrive, Tammy has become a trusted expert in lactation and a cornerstone of care at USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital in Mobile, Alabama.
Tammy has been a nurse for twenty-six years and celebrated her twenty-fourth anniversary on the Mother-Baby Unit at USA Health this past February. Since 2005, she has primarily served in the role of Lactation Consultant, earning her Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) credential that same year. She obtained her International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) credential in 2009 and her certification in Maternal Newborn Nursing (RNC-MNN) in 2022.
Tammy knew early in nursing school that her heart was in caring for mothers and babies. Her commitment to breastfeeding support grew rapidly after she began her career, and she has since found great joy in helping mothers achieve success. Whether teaching breastfeeding classes or offering one-on-one guidance during hospital stays, she strives to provide each family with the tools and encouragement needed to achieve the best start. “On the busiest days,” Tammy shares, “I’m often rewarded with the gratitude of a mother who benefited from my help.”
Currently, Tammy is helping her team lead the CHAMPS National initiative at USA Health. She is proud to see more mothers choosing to initiate breastfeeding and is a strong advocate for breastfeeding promotion throughout the community. Tammy emphasizes the importance of empowering mothers to provide breast milk, highlighting its numerous benefits for both mother and baby, and encourages healthcare professionals and community members alike to support expectant families. “Help mothers feel empowered to provide the best start for their newborn,” she urges. “Promote community support, encourage them to attend classes, and help them know what to expect in those early days and weeks when mothers and babies are learning together.”
CHEER is proud to honor Tammy Doherty as our CHAMPion of the Week, celebrating her compassion, experience, and unwavering dedication to breastfeeding support and maternal-child health.