Question for those who have/are breastfeeding...

brenaxtruthx

So I couldn't afford a breastfeeding class and I'm totally clueless when it comes down to it.  I planned on using both a bottle and breastfeeding just in case my sugars don't stay level (I have type 1 diabetes).  The problem is a. my WIC lady won't give me the formula coupons until after my baby is born and I bring him in as proof (cause at 38 weeks you can't tell I'm pregnant?) and b. I don't have a breast pump yet and can't seem to get a hold of the people through WIC to get one.  

How necessary is a breast pump? I mean, people got by before they were invented so I should be ok for a little while right? 

I ended up having to go on maternity leave early due to some complications (and it's not paid b/c they wouldn't hire me full time) and my husband lost his good paying job so he only makes $75 a week right now if that...and it barely covers our rent/bills.  So buying is out of the question.  I just feel so lost on all of this