Testimonial for Keli Schurman-Darby, CD, CPD, C-FSD, CLE, CBE,CDD from Alyssa Gray

Testimonial for Keli Schurman-Darby, CD, CPD, C-FSD, CLE, CBE,CDD

Working with Keli was one of the best decisions I made during this pregnancy. From the start, her calm, grounded presence made me feel supported in ways I didn’t even realize I needed. This birth was so redemptive after the trauma of my first c-section, and I truly believe Keli was a huge part of that.

When we found out my baby was breech, I felt overwhelmed and anxious. Keli held space for me through it all—never minimizing my feelings and always offering steady, nonjudgmental support. From the breech news, to an unsuccessful ECV, and finally a planned c-section, she was a constant reminder that my experience mattered and that I wasn’t alone.

What stood out most was how present Keli was not just during the birth, but especially before and after. She helped me prepare mentally and emotionally, process my fears, and supported me in bonding with my baby post-surgery. Her care didn’t stop at the OR doors—she showed up with warmth, information, and a deep understanding of what I needed.

She’s continued to be an incredible support postpartum, especially with breastfeeding challenges. She’s always a message away, ready with encouragement, empathy, and practical advice. Whether it’s prenatal prep, emotional support, postpartum healing, or feeding help, her knowledge and resources have been invaluable.

Many think doulas are only for unmedicated or vaginal births, but my experience proves otherwise. Keli’s support helped me reclaim my experience and feel empowered, even when birth didn’t go as planned. I’m so grateful I chose to prioritize myself and have a team that truly saw and held me. Keli was such a big part of that healing, and I’ll always be thankful.

We’re still navigating postpartum—figuring it out day by day—but we’re healthy, held, and getting through it together. And that feels like a happy ending.

-Alyssa Gray

June 28, 2025