Testimonial for Melissa Harris
Melissa was my primary doula at the birth of my son Samuel, and both she and my second doula (Nicole) were my saving graces. As a single mom, having someone by my side during my labour and the birth was absoutely essential. Melissa went above and beyond for me -- doing a check in every month at my place, and even offering to go to childbirth classes with me (we never got that far because my son came before they were to start!), and finding Nicole as a second doula so I could have even more support. They were my strength during labour (as short as it was) when I kept saying in the middle of contractions that I couldn't do it. On the day my son was born, Melissa came to my house ready to go and found me in the tub in active labour with Nicole rubbing my back through the contractions. Melissa took charge in paging my midwives, help my friend get my stuff together and find clothes for me, and encouraged us to get going to the hospital fairly soon after she arrived. She remained calm throughout the whole thing, including the drive to the hospital, and was encouraging, calm, patient, and gentle. Not to mention she has a great sense of humour. humour through contractions is exactly what I needed! Throughout my short and intense back labour she encouraged me to use low tones and breathe, and she never left my side. She spoke gently and repeated to me what the midwives said since I couldnt hear them, and assured me that the back pain would be gone the moment my baby was born (and she was right). She made sure I was hydrated, took pictures for me, helped me breastfeed my son, all the while not losing that sense of humour. She & Nicole made sure all my belongings were gathered together in one place and stayed with me until we were settled into our room at the hospital at 230am. At a post natal visit she asked me if I had questions about the birth & answered them for me & made yummy chocolate chip cookies. Her services were worth every penny.
-Charlotte Hannah Wilkinson
November 23, 2013
Melissa Harris
Melissa Harris Birth Services
Birth Fee: $1500
Postpartum Rate: $40 to $50
