Chelsey

11/11/2023

Having Lori by your side isn't just a "breathing coach." She's your advocate, your teammate your anchor, and lifeboat through the whole process. Lori establishes who you (and your partner) are in her initial visits and meets you exactly where you are in life whether you are a first time mom, or experienced. No judgement on any of your values.
She will offer gentle suggestions from her 10+ years of experience, but ultimately she's there to support you, and what's important to you. Lori sees the big picture, but thinks of the little things that make all the difference. She made sure my first meal after birth wasn't 'hospital food.' She brought me food that was nutritious and sustaining. Trust me, food never tasted so good as that first meal at 1am. She's there to support you, but if applicable also you partner.
Upon coming home she is there with clean hands and rolled up sleeves to help you in those first initial days and weeks.
She helped me bathe my newborn for the first time, when I physically couldn't (due to emergency c section) and honestly was a little terrified to.
She would arrive weekly and relieve me so I could walk my dogs, get some fresh air, go to the store or go for a drive. Each time she brought me nutritious homemade meals, baked goods, or gifts. She always went above and beyond.
We communicated mainly via text right from the beginning which I appreciated as I was able to ask her questions randomly as I thought of them, and then also texted her in the night when my labour started, and subsequently after when I was at home for well being check ins.
Her list of included services is extensive, and at the end of your time together she provides you with a "birth story" summarizing the birth of your little one as a keepsake. I deeply appreciated mine as some moments ended up being a blur. Hiring Lori as my Doula was worth every dollar and I would enthusiastically recommend her to anyone.

Kaitlyn

10/14/2023

I knew when I got pregnant that my husband wasn't going to be able to provide the support I needed for the pregnancy, delivery and postpartum. When I first talked to Lori on the phone, I knew I needed her to be part of our journey to parenthood. She is absolutely extraordinary! She goes above and beyond to provide the best care to you in every way possible. She eased all my fears of labor and delivery and made it possible to have a non-medicated birth for my child. Bringing my baby into this world was the best day of my life and I'm extremely thankful to Lori for everything. She came to our house postpartum and gave me the opportunity to get some naps in after some rough nights and brought us meals. When I have another baby, Lori will be the first to know because I don't want to do it again without her. She is a beautiful, kind hearted person and has such a passion for what she does. My husband and I were blessed to get to know her and are so grateful for her.

Faith

1/24/2023

Getting to know Lori has been the best decision I have made for this pregnancy. When we first met we instantly clicked and I knew that I wanted her on my team.

Long story short, my pregnancy did not go as planned. I gave birth to a 26 week old preemie (weighing in at 1lb. 9oz.) spent 5 months in the NICU and Lori was always a text or call away. And while my doula relationship with Lori was not the "typical" one it made it all the more special because it meant having someone to vent to, cry and laugh with through all the unforseen things that pregnancy and motherhood brings- and that to me is a perfect definition of a Doula. Someone who is ever so present when being a first time mother comes flooding in all at once.

Emma

4/17/2020

I had the privilege of having Lori as my Doula for my second baby. It was an honour to get to experience her kind and gentle heart. Along with providing much helpful information about my choices, Lori also graciously provided our family with yummy home baking. 
My favourite part was her gift of my birth story to treasure for years to come.
I absolutely recommend Lifted Hearts & Hands for your Doula experience!