From some of my Clients…

I’m an OB/GYN and take care of women in labor every day, but even with my background, I don’t know how I would have made it through the birth of my first baby without Laurie. She talked me through my contractions, advocated for me when I requested an epidural, and supported my husband the whole time. She brainstormed ideas to get me more comfortable, and faded into the background to let me get sleep when I needed it. She helped me communicate with my medical team when I needed her to, but always in a kind and respectful way. I will never forget her support while pushing, she held my hand and was the only person in the room I wanted to listen to. In the first week after I delivered, I struggled with breastfeeding, and it felt like she was the only one who truly understood my heartbreak at not being able to feed my son. She gently reassured me that I had tried my best and was still a good mom. The week I had Noah will always remain a bit of a blur, a mix of some of the highest highs and lowest lows, but Laurie’s love and support is one of the most memorable and special parts of that week.” -Kalie

“As soon as my water broke I called Laurie and she helped us decide when to go to the hospital. She came right away and even brought my husband some food! Throughout the labor, Laurie showed me different positions and helped me create a rhythm of breathing and movement. After 9 hours of labor, I opted for an epidural. Soon after, the medical staff discovered that I needed an emergency c-section due to a placental abruption. It all happened so fast, we were in shock! Laurie immediately made sure I knew what was happening and reassured me that everything was going to be ok. Then she stayed with my husband after I was taken to the OR. After the birth, she came to see us a couple times to make sure everything was good with my recovery, breastfeeding, and caring for my son. Laurie’s presence gave us peace and confidence throughout the whole pregnancy and delivery process. My husband and I are so grateful, we have a healthy son and only good memories of his birth.” -Lauren

 

“I had many complications during pregnancy, but Laurie was very encouraging and helped me research some of my symptoms. When I was induced at 35 weeks and confined to the bed, I was still able to labor naturally using positions and techniques Laurie had taught me in her childbirth class. At my weakest point, Laurie told me I could do it, that I was almost there, and reminded me why I had chosen not to have an epidural. Throughout this first pregnancy and birth, Laurie continued to amaze me with her calming spirit and knowledge of birth. She is an awesome doula!” -Meredith

“I was nervous about giving birth, so I started looking into Doulas online a few months before my due date. I contacted a few and Laurie was the first to respond and set up a time to meet. Laurie spent almost 2 hours chatting with me at a cafe before I had even hired her! I instantly felt better about giving birth knowing she would be there to guide my husband and I. She stayed in touch leading up to the due date and also met with us at our house to go over my birth plan and discuss all the options. When my water broke, she met us at the hospital once my contractions were starting to feel uncomfortable. I had a long labor and she was right there helping us through it. When I was disappointed in myself for needing an epidural, Laurie was so supportive of my decision and helped me through my negative emotions about it. She visited us at our house after birth to see how we were doing. Laurie is passionate about what she does. She is empathetic and supportive. I would definitely recommend her to anyone considering adding a doula to their birth team!” - Veronique

“I had a goal to have a natural childbirth experience, but was a little fearful of the unknown. Laurie helped me throughout my pregnancy by educating me with natural birth techniques. The day I went in to labor she was at my house helping time contractions and advising us when to go to the hospital. I do remember feeling very tired towards the end, but Laurie was with me until my baby girl was born-encouraging me and reminding me how to breathe through contractions. My husband is very supportive but unsure of the birth process, so he was glad to have our doula there to reassure him. We were both so grateful for her! ” -Kim

“We found Laurie through a Facebook post where she was recommended. After meeting her, we immediately felt she would be a warm and encouraging presence on our journey to meeting our first little one. We took Laurie’s birth classes, which were intimate and informative. We have remained in touch with the other couple from our class, which has proven to be an unexpected, wonderful perk!
My water broke on a Monday afternoon, and baby was born early Wednesday morning. Laurie was along for the long ride, and proved to be invaluable to my husband and I through a long labor accompanied by quite a few hours of pushing. She was a great, encouraging resource for us and a much needed support/ reinforcement for the husband! My medical team at MUSC could not say enough kind things about Laurie. I think they often have mixed feelings regarding doulas, as they likely see all types, but they absolutely loved Laurie. At a follow-up appointment, our OB even mentioned that the doctor who delivered our baby had mentioned our doula to her and was super complimentary. I’d say that’s a huge compliment! If you are on the fence about hiring a doula, or in the midst of your search, reach out to Laurie. Her calm, warm, reassuring presence and help proved truly indispensable to our experience bringing our little guy earth-side! I’m so grateful that we found her, and can’t emphasize how much of a difference the perfect team can make in your birthing experience.” -Katie