Testimonial for Laura DePasquale, CD(DONA) from Dana Babeu

Testimonial for Laura DePasquale, CD(DONA)

My husband and I first met Laura 2 years ago through her childbirth education class. We both loved her instantly and after a few classes decided we wanted her to be with us during the birth as well. It was one of the best decisions we could have made because we ended up with a very different birth experience than anyone had anticpated. All indicators had pointed to a quick, easy labor and I was extremely determined to have an unmedicated birth. However, after 17 1/2 hours of laboring naturally, I was faced with a very difficult decision due to extreme pain from my sciatic nerve. The pain had worsened over the course of my pregnancy but became unbearable during labor when the baby dropped down to a position which caused unrelenting stimulation of the nerve. Laura tried everything to make me comfortable - the tub, shower, massage, compresses - but it was her calm and assured presence that kept me from totally losing control. She even made sure my husband took a few breaks and had something to eat and drink with the assurance that she would not leave me alone while he was gone. At some point the midwife and nurses grew concerned for the baby's safety and lack of labor progression, and although I was devastated at the time, I knew I had to try the epidural to try and avoid a C-section. I will never forget how Laura leaned over me and took my hand and told me it was ok, that I had tried my hardest and that we just needed to get the baby out safely. Six hours later my daughter was born, beautiful and healthy. Laura called over the next few days to check on us in the hospital. She knew how important my birth plan had been to me and never once trivialized its significance. Her insights, strength and support not only helped me through a difficult birth, but also in coming to terms with my experience in the weeks that followed. I recommend her so highly!

-Dana Babeu

December 30, 2013