Glorious

8/7/2024

Going into my pregnancy, I was filled with lots of anxiety. I was juggling so much. My health,my job, being unhoused,and doing it all alone! After finally finding a maternity home, my case manager connected me with a resource that offered doula services. I'd crossed my fingers about who I would have. Would we connect? Would they understand my needs? Will they offer education that would aid in me building the confidence I needed going into labor? 

Yes. Yes. And, yes! Meeting Lola changed the way I viewed pregnancy,labor/birth, and myself-- for the better! Not only was I offered information and education that calmed my anxious thoughts, I felt safe. I was free to express my needs, ask for advice, and stay quiet when I didn't have the energy to speak (during labor) --knowing that I had someone who would stand in the gap and honor my wishes/preferences.

Postpartum care also came as a blessing! I wanted to be super woman. As sleep deprived,anxious, and overwhelmed as I was, I wanted to do my best to be the best mother I could be. However, I was quickly reminded that help, rest, and sharing the load on any given day wouldn't make me any less of a super woman, or Super Mama.

Lola stepped in and made sure I had time to rest, encouraged me to eat healthy,and helped around my living space in ways that my postpartum body wasn't quite ready to handle. She also encouraged me during my tough battle trying to breastfeed.

Funny, sweet, kind, and beautiful (inside and out), I was blessed to have such a great doula for my first pregnancy. Such a dignifying experience!

Thank you, Lola! 

Until next time ??.