I am indebted to my own mother, who instilled in me the value of family and the ever-fresh delight in new life. At the age of 13, I became an auntie for the first time, and spent a blissful summer staying with my older sister to help her with baby care. Thus began my passion…
My husband and I are blessed with 6 adult children and 11 grandchildren. I delivered all my babies at Marshall Hospital; the first five births were entirely unmedicated, supported by a confident education in the mechanics of birth and relaxation techniques, as well as a lovingly supportive birth team each time at Marshall. It was beautiful and empowering to experience and believe in my body’s ability to birth. Our last baby was born by emergency C-section, proving the unpredictability of birth, and showing me another strength I had never before realized I had! I am so thankful for that experience, adding to my knowledge and compassion for mothers facing similar circumstances. In 1999, (before I had even heard of the word “doula”!) I supported a neighbor at the birth of her baby. It was the most natural and rewarding thing for me. I began reading all I could get my hands on, about birth and especially natural, unmedicated birth. Since then, I have supported daughters-in-law, friends and friends-of-friends in their births, always unique, always a joy. I’ve seen VBACs (Vaginal Birth After Caesarean) and even a Frank Breech successfully delivered. It is my desire, joy and privilege to pass on to mothers the confidence and support I received in my pregnancies, births and postpartum times. I believe that by education we can eradicate the fear associated with birth. With calming support we can ease the tension brought on by fear of the unknown. Helping mamas stay confident, strong and calm is my goal, whatever arises. My services and fees:
$700 covers 2 prenatal visits (with basic training in mechanics of birth, nutrition, exercises and labor relaxation techniques), labor support through delivery and up to an hour afterwards, and 1 postnatal visit to see that mom and babe are on their way to a healthy, happy start. I am delighted to help with nursing and other new baby/new mom concerns. Just let me know what you want, and I’ll tailor my services to your needs!
$50 per extra visit, before or after birth. Recommendations available upon request.
