Let me start by stating, "Katharine is great!" Although the birth of my son did not go as planned (and I mean nothing went as planned!), Katharine was a huge part of helping me through the entire and somewhat traumatic experience.
From the outset, Katharine was very understanding and accommodating. First off, she obliged my request to meet with me 1:1 just so that I could see if we connected well. She answered all my questions, addressed my concerns and provided information I hadn’t even though of. Also, she just sat and talked to me about “me”, which made me feel like I was not just another client but that she was genuinely interested in my well being. After initial meetings, Katharine was open to and encouraged me to send her text updates after each of my prenatal appointments, which again made me feel like she was providing support throughout my pregnancy and not just waiting until my due date to think of me.
The day of the actual birth was crazy. Due to preeclampsia, and subsequently HELLP amongst other things, I had to be induced and have a cesarean section …and to make things more complicated of course my little one had to be born on Thanksgiving. Despite it being a holiday and having family from out of town visiting, Katharine was there with me and my family! She didn’t question it or ask me if I needed her, she simply showed up and was ready. Because of medication administration, we weren’t able to engage in the physical techniques I had hoped for but Katharine adapted and provided me with other support, i.e. aromatherapy, massage and overall encouragement.
Since the birth of my son Katharine’s support has not stopped. She not only came to see me at home and meet my little guy to “debrief” about my birth experience but also continues to request updates and provide resources. So, as I stated at the beginning, Katharine is a great.
-Elizabeth Alberto
January 08, 2014
Dare Alla Luce Doula
Birth Fee: Not specified