Kirsten Lasley

5/16/2024

Dez is truly a calming force in the wild ride that is first time motherhood. She is always professional and takes the utmost care with our little dude. As an expert in newborns, I go to her with any and all questions and she is fantastic with responding, calming and delegating to our pediatrician if needed. She cares for not only our baby so well, but for me and my husband too. We couldn't do first time parenthood without her!

Akanksha

5/8/2024

Dez is an amazing postpartum doula. She took care of our baby girl for the first six weeks and we had a wonderful experience. She was there the first night we came home after a long hospital stay and helped us get some much needed rest. Dez is professional, nurturing, and warm and I'd highly recommend her services!

Alicia

8/24/2023

I was incredibly fortunate to have Desiree Young “Dez” as my night doula after the birth of my daughter.  I often described Dez as the “baby whisperer” as our daughter was immediately calm and relaxed when Dez was around. As a FTM, I was incredibly overwhelmed and sleep deprived but having Dez in our home at nights allowed us to get sleep. Dez provided exceptional care for our newborn but also checked on us, the parents to ensure the whole family was supported. We always looked forward to having her in our home as we truly enjoyed her warm presence and I was eager to learn from her.  Dez was an invaluable resource and I highly recommend her to anyone looking for an incredibly trustworthy, professional and knowledgeable Doula. I can’t thank Dez enough for supporting us through one of the most beautiful and challenging times in our life. 

Ashleigh Ricardo

8/7/2023

Dez is an absolutely amazing doula and person. When we found out we were pregnant, I wanted to utilize an overnight postpartum doula (night nurse) to help us through the first 6 weeks or so. Neither my husband nor I had much experience (if any) with babies. My husband was hesitant to the idea but soon figured out how it was the best decision we have ever made. Our first son was porn at 34 weeks and was in the NICU for two weeks. Bringing him home was terrifying and having her there the first night instantly put us at ease. She helped us learn the ins and outs of our tiny son and helped me through a difficult breastfeeding journey. She provided advice and tips with how to try and succeed with breastfeeding but no judgment which I appreciated. I had many a conversations with her at 3am asking her for advice and I don't know if I could have survived those first few weeks without her. Once our initial contract was up, my husband insisted we extend the contract (first of many extensions) and we ultimately had Dez in our home for 4 months.

We were so happy with her care for our son and her warmth as a person that when we found out we were pregnant we knew we had to hire her again. It comes as no surprise that the second time around was a wonderful experience yet again. Although she will not take the credit and claims some babies are just good sleepers, I like to believe that our second was able to sleep through the night pretty early on thanks to her experience and guidance. 

I wish everyone had a "Dez" in their life and I feel so privileged that she was a part of our journey as parents. I have recommended her to many people and I will continue to do so. 

Arissa

1/23/2023

I could not have asked for a better doula. Dez puts a lot of care into her services and you can tell she has a true passion for supporting both moms and dads on this journey. My pregnancy was very delicate, having had two previous losses, and Dez held our hands the entire way, starting at 14 weeks. We truly formed a great relationship and it transpired through my labor and delivery as well. If you want a Doula to support you holistically through your pregnancy book her! 

Sarah Haque

1/17/2023

Desiree' is quite literally the best post partum doula that could ever exist. We had a few backup doulas through our agency that were also fantastic, but Desiree' stands out even among that amazing crowd. We never had any help with our first two kids, but we knew with a third on the way, we were going to need more support. Desiree' showed up and just knew what we needed without us even asking. She had a backpack full of baby care things that she could whip out as needed and so she would never have to wake us up for anything (except nursing in my case). She provided us advice on baby care (turns out we didn't already know everything!) and just made us feel at ease right away. Our third started daycare and I went back to work while she was still with us, and she helped so much during that transition. Our third definitely picked up some bugs from her siblings and daycare and Desiree' held her all night for several nights so she could sleep well and then when she was better, got her right back into a good sleeping schedule. 

We aren't people who love having others stay in our home, but with Desiree', we never wanted her to leave. I feel sad she isn't with us anymore even now, but our child sleeps amazing and through the night (also thanks to her) so it was time for her to move on. You would be crazy not to hire her!

Frankie and Sonny

1/13/2022

Dez is amazing!  We highly recommend her doula services.  We recently had our first child and Dez helped us tremendously as new parents.  Dez is extremely knowledgeable, nuturing, kind, warm, patient and trustworthy.  We would have been completely lost without her.  We felt the love that she had for our baby girl and we feel lucky to know her.  She is an outstanding mentor and she instilled confidence in us as new parents.  Dez is the simply the best and we love her!  

Brandi

12/1/2021

When I first met Desiree via zoom (pandemic pregnancy), I felt an immediate connection. We seemed to have a lot in common, and while I planned to meet with another doula before making my decision, I decided to go with my gut and hire Desiree. It was the best decision I ever made. She was helpful in putting together my birth plan and general infant care. She assisted my husband with the many things he would have to learn leading up to the big day. I was induced in my 37th week due to some health issues. It was great having her by my side. I gave birth in a hospital she was familiar with and having her there meant that I didn't have to wait for the nurses if I needed something as easy as water or a container to vomit in (random pregnancy side effect no one told me about). She was just so incredibly helpful. Desiree was by my side when I brought my sweet girl into the world. Desiree was there for me when I called her crying in the middle of the night 2 days after taking my baby home. I was exhausted and my baby would only sleep in my arms, and I didn't know what to do. Desiree talked me through it, and I felt so much less alone in that moment. 10 days after my baby was born I was readmitted to the hospital with preeclampsia. I was treated there for the weekend and when I went home Desiree came over for a meeting with me and my husband. They had decided that I needed rest. They had decided that we would be getting night nurse assistance 3 nights a week. I fought it, but Desiree knowing what was going through my mind (strong black woman narrative), looked me in the face and said, "you can't be there for your baby if you die." I took the help and I never looked back. Desiree has continued to be there for me these past 5 months. I've called or texted her with random questions about pretty much everything and she's always there. I don't know how I would have managed all of this without her.

Todd

11/7/2021

Desiree’ was a fantastic doula.  Because of her, we had a fantastic doula experience, and a birth experience that was great.  She was there to help us welcome our little Evelyn into the world.  She was a great wealth of knowledge, and terrific resource, and warm and kind shoulder to cry on.  Desiree was a pillar of strength, and a rock of wisdom. I highly recommend Desiree’ as a doula.  You will find her warm, kind, compassionate, empathetic, knowledgeable, skillful, and hilarious. She will make your experience with pregnancy and birth, as well as post-partum, far more special and rewarding.
 
 

Marie F.

10/20/2021

After many sleepless nights and a rough L&D, my husband and I were looking for doula care and were referred to Dez by colleagues. We had an initial intake call and not only was Dez professional but her philsophy around both mother and infant care was very appreciated. Her philosophy is probably the main reason why we went with her versus some of the other Doulas and services.

When Dez came into our home she brought all her years of expertise and her calm, nurturing and caring presence. Our son took to her and her assistant, Juawanna, immediately. They both were timely, and notified us in advance if a birth meant they weren't available. They played with our son, reading, singing, checking milestones and rocking him. They also made/washed his bottles - helping us out with some of his chores/housework. Dez always asked, when she took over caring for our son, what I was going to do for me/my self care. Her prompting and gentle encouragement reminded me that I needed to take the time for myself to heal. 

We worked with Dez a couple of days a week midday and also from 8 pm - 1 am, allowing time for uninterrupted sleep for my husband who was not given leave (or for myself if he was away). Dez and Juawanna always worked to best accomodate our schedule and we are grateful for the level of care they provided for our entire family over the summer. 

Ashley L.

7/19/2021

I went back and forth for a long time about getting a doula but choosing Dez was the right decision.  I interviewed three doulas and instantly connected with Dez. She was easy to talk too, kind, and gave advice without judgement.  She instantly put me at ease as I naviagted the end of my pregnancy.  She checked in on us constantly and was readily avialable to anwser any of my questions.  

She was also the perfect companion during labor. As a Black woman, I was concerned about over intervention during my labor and Dez made sure me and my husband knew what was happening every step of the way.  My labor was almost 30 hours and she support me through contractions, helped clarify the doctor's recommendations and even brought games to keep us occupied during the early stages of labor.  Most importanlty she eased my nerves when it became apparent that I would need a c-section.

I cannot recommend De more. What she did for my piece of mind during and after labor and in my early postpartmum period was invauable.  Using a doula is an investment but one that is worth every penny, especially when they are as knowledgeable and helpful as Dez.  

Pricellious McElroy

5/15/2021

I highly recommend Desiree for labor/delivery support and postpartum care. As a first-time mom, it was important to me to have a knowledgeable and caring doula who could advocate for me. Like most labors, there were  events that were out of my control and Desiree was there to support and educate me throughout the process. After our baby boy arrived, Desiree frequently checked-in on us to provide advice and encouragement. We decided to hire Desiree for overnight support and it was one of our best postpartum decisions. It allowed us to get some much needed rest. My experience with Desiree has been overwhelming positive. We think of her as an extension of our family. She's a caring, knowledgeable, and trustworthy doula that any mom-to-be would be lucky to work with. 

Amy

5/5/2021

My partner and I hired Dez as a birth doula. Dez was an absolutely wonderful doula and I have nothing but kind and positive things to say about working with her. I knew Dez would be the perfect doula for us starting with our initial interview. As a first time parent, I was clueless about the entire process but my OB suggested a doula since my goal was an unmedicated vaginal birth. Dez is experienced and knowledgeable. She has the background to ask the important questions and never made me feel pressured into making one decision or another. Due to COVID, we met via Zoom but did have one in-person session before the birth where we went over basic newborn childcare and our birth plan. Unfortunately, my birth ended up being a Cesarean delivery due to the baby's breech position and Dez was unable to attend the birth, but she was on call for multiple phone calls before the surgery and afterward. She had one in-person post partum visit with us at 2 weeks to meet the baby and she is still always available to text or call whenever I have a question, even after the birth. I always look forward to her wisdom and guidance and cannot reccomend her enough!

A. Curtis

9/20/2020

Desiree was wonderful for our family. She helped us the day of our delivery by being our sibling doula. We went into labor around 2 am, and we were super nervous that Desiree wouldn't be able to make it to our home in time. As we discussed prior to labor, Desiree answered right away and made it to our home in less than an hour. Our toddler (2 year old) loved spending time with her. It was such a relief for our family to have Desiree's support and assistance. I highly recommend her services. 

Morgan

8/25/2020

We are so grateful that we found Des! She was a lifesaver for our family. After a lot of complications, Des was an empathetic, compassionate person we could rely on. She was always very flexible based on our needs and helped us figure out what would work best for our family when all of our "plans" had to be changed at the last minute. She loved our little girl and taught us so much. We could always trust her and count on her to tell us what we needed to do and how we could improve things we were already doing. She still checks in on us months later. I don't know what we would have done without Des and can't recommend her enough. 

Felicia Bullock

11/20/2019

I interviewed a total of four doulas. All were qualified and had the amount of experience I was looking for, so it was a matter of finding something that I clicked with and that made me feel comfortable. Desiree and I clicked immediately. She was a great listener and that was a quality that I was looking for in a doula.

Throughout my pregnancy she was always available to chat about any concern I had. Often our conversations would lead to her dropping things off like an exercise ball or tea. She went above and beyond. 
The night I went in to be induced, the doctors tried to scare me into using methods that I was not comfortable with and she advocated for me. She walked with me, massaged for counter pressure and even talked me off the ledge when I started to doubt whether I could do it epidural free (like I wanted).

Overall I couldn't have asked for a better doula. She was (and still is) the support I needed and I'll always be grateful that I hired her!   

Joana Henderson

11/15/2019

Dez was of great help to our newborn. She was our night nurse for 5 nights/ week in the baby's first 6 weeks of life. This allowed dad to get some decent sleep before going to work. It allowed mom to get a break from constantly caring for the baby.

Dez was always on time, very professional and loving. She took care of our baby as if it was her own. 

I warmly recommend!

Shannon Petrick

11/6/2019

Ms. Desiree is the best! My husband and I hired her to help us with our new baby and she was fantastic, not only for him but for our 4 year old daughter as well.  Ms. Dez   is friendly, kind, super funny and, of course, wonderful with the kiddos.  She also helped us around the house and was very good with our crazy dogs that were always in toe.  I highly recommend her and we will definitely be using her again! 

Elizabeth Cole

10/29/2019

We worked with Des postpartum, and she was fabulous. I struggled with recurring mastitis, and I needed someone desperately, so I contacted Samantha at Windy City Doulas last minute. Before I knew it, Des was taking care of our sweet Lily while I recuperated. She helped me catch my breath so that I could be the mother that I wanted to be to our little girl.

She was so sweet with Lily, talking to her constantly, playing with her and playing music for her. When Des arrived, Lily was happy, and when she left, Lily was all smiles having had wonderful play time and lots of sweet cuddles. My only regret is that I didn't meet Des sooner!

I would highly recommend her for any type of support, and I cannot wait to use her again for round two!

Katie

10/11/2019

Desiree helped make the transition to motherhood so much easier than I could have hoped.

Des and I met prior to my son's birth, so when she arrived to help care for my son, who arrived 3 weeks early, I was already super comfortable with Des. Des helped in my rotation of overnight, postpartum Doula care. She took the overnight shift 3 night a week. Because I trusted her early on, I was able to get sleep and be a happier mother. My son benefitted from the fact that I was well rested. Des, a mother herself, helped me learn how best to care for my new child. She has so much experience that she was a patient, but knowledgeable, teacher.

I highly recommend having a doula by your side during delivery and postpartum care, and I truly recommend Desiree!

Emily Pinsler

3/14/2019

My husband and I realized we wanted a Doula when we found out we were pregnant with our first baby. As first timers we had so many questions about the birth process as well as the life changes that would follow. After an initial meeting, we chose Dezi (Desiree) to be our doula. In the months leading up to the birth, she took the time to walk us through the birthing process and worked to quell our fears. When the big day came she was calm, accessible and checked in with me every hour until we all decided to head to the hospital. I felt so supported and she took the guess work out of the labor process during a time that is wrought with uncertainty. Once at the hospital, Dezi used various techniques (massage, oils, etc) to help progress labor all while making me as comfortable as possible and ensuring my husband felt involved. After child birth we employed Dezi for over-night help as we transitioned to parenthood. She exceeded any expectation we had and provided us with helpful information about newborns, breastfeeding and child care in addition to showing our baby girl so much love. In short, Dezi’s guidance and support allowed us to be the parent’s we’ve always wanted to be.

Susan Repp

7/7/2017

Dez was wonderful! She was very considerate of both my husband and I. She also checked in with me frequently throughout my pregnancy and helped me along the way. She listened to what we wanted in a birth plan, and executed it flawlessly.  I wanted a little more hands-off approach during my labor, with my husband primarily supporting me, and she did just that! She never got in the way, but was there to support us every step of the way. What I also love about Dez is that she can support you in whatever manner you need. :)

During my labor, she was kind and attended to my needs. She supported me by reading both my verbal and non-verbal cues, and treated me with love and kindness. She is very caring, selfless, serving, and kind. 

I would absolutely recommend Dez to any mother looking for a Doula. She was phenomenal and I couldn't have asked for a better caregiver!

Juawanna Mccray

7/3/2017

I began working with Desiree' in my third trimester. We connected instanly, She is a very sweet person. Being a first time mom i had all types of emotions and questions that i needed answers to. Dez answered all my questions,made sure i fully understand the whole process of pregancy. I loved the fact that her services included working out doing yoga, meditation,massages, and child bith education.She even helped me find a photogather to do my maternity shoot. I had the best experice i could have asked for. Although my labor did not go as planned. Dez was right there every step of the way with a plan B. She never left myside until she knew me and the baby was okay. She is very professional,compasinate,flexiable,reliable, and warm hearted. If i ever have another child, I definitely will be using her again. I highly recommed her to anyone who is looking for a real doula. She is one of the best Doulas in the World.

Elissa Rae

7/24/2016

We had a wonderful experience with Desiree'. Since we were expecting our first, I was very nervous about the upcoming delivery. She did an amazing job keeping me calm and helping me mentally prepare the months before our little boy arrived. I can't even tell you how much I looked forward to our weekly visits. Desiree' has such a warm and loving presence that always makes you feel safe and cared for. I would highly recommend her services.

Nicole Williams

7/22/2016

I began working with Desiree' during my 5 month. I chose the the Mothering the Mother Birth Package, as this was my first baby and though very excited, I had a lot of anxiety.  I absolutely loved my experience.  Being a first time mom, there were so many things that I ddi not know that I didn't know.  Having Dez there to support me through my concerns and fears, answer my questions during her visits and after hour phone calls, as well as, prepare me with one on one childbirth and breastfeeding education was so helpful and necessary.  In addition to all of that during her regular visits she massaged my feet, encouraged me to journal, provided scents aromatherapy and taught me relaxation techniques.  She also brought me back from the edge a few times when I wanted to wring my partners neck...lol.

By the time we made it to the delivery room at 3am, Dez had become a part of the family.  Most importantly, she was my advocate. Though I had planned for a natural childbirth, after only 2-hours of sleep and 5 hours of labor I was exhausted and wanted an epidural so that I could get some rest. My family was pushing me to continue naturally, but Dez stepped in and made sure my needs were met.  After a much needed nap, it took no time for my little one to be born.

I truly loved and appreciated my experience with Desiree' and was happy to recommend her and the Mothering the Mother Birth Package to one of my girlfriends.  When baby #2 comes along, you best believe we will be calling Dez.

Kelsie Miller Loy

7/21/2016

My husband and I were first time parents and were doing a home birth through gentle birth care. They required us to have a doula since we were new parents and at first we were really trying to get around this because I didn't feel like I wanted/needed one. Let me just say that I am so extremely glad that we ended up getting one and that it was Desiree. She was so supportive before the birth and always checked in to ensure that I was doing well and offer tips for relief from symptoms I was experiencing. She was very supportive in the decisions my husband and I were making regarding the birth and really made us feel comfortable. When it came to labor, she was my rock. She was a calming presence during my 26 hour labor and I honestly don't know if I could have gotten through it without her. She gave me a wonderful massage in the early stages of labor with some amazing essential oils to help move things along which was amazing. During contractions I had a lot of back labor and she used an amazing technique with counter pressure on my hips to help take the edge off. It took my pain from a 10 to a 4 and I was able to relax through most of my labor until about an hour before I pushed the baby out. During the last stages of labor when I was exhausted and just wanted to sleep, she not only helped with pain management but her verbal support was so calming and made me feel like I could do anything. I truly believe that without her, my birthing experience would have been bad. If you are looking for a doula, she is your girl. If you are deciding if you want a doula or not, I am telling you right now that you need to hire her because your birth will be 1000X better with her support and help. She was also a great support system after the birth and ensured we were adjusting and had everything we needed. Thanks Desiree for everything and we hope to use you for our future child births!

Kristin Wurgler

7/6/2016

I have been working with Desiree for the last 6+ weeks for both Doula services and Pre-Natal Exercise and it has been a wonderful experience. She is knowledgeable, flexible, helpful, and gentle. She is able to go with the flow and cater each session to what I need and what is going on with me that week. I highly recommend Desiree for anyone, first pregnancy or not. Her goal is not just to education and assist in any way she can, but to truly make the experience more positive for the mama, whatever that may mean.