Testimonial for Melanie Russell
Melanie in a word...AMAZING! Melanie was our doula for our 3rd pregnancy, my previous 2 pregnancies were c-sections and I knew from the beginning I wanted this birth to be different. I had my heart set on a drug-free VBAC and wanted to do everything I could to be successful! So, I hired Melanie as my Doula, switched care providers at 34 weeks to the VCU Midwives, and attended Melanie's "A Brighter Birth" class. My husband and I left her class feeling very prepared about what to expect with a natural labor. Melanie was there for us, every step of the way! You would think having been pregnant before, I would be a pro at realizing when labor was coming on, but not the case! I went 5 days past my due date and felt like I was texting with Melanie constantly during that time, she was so patient with me, reassuring me this baby would come when she was ready, and that my body was capable of a vaginal delivery! June 23rd my water broke at home around 11:30 p.m. contractions came on fast! By the time we got to the hospital my contractions were 2 min. apart and I was 4 cm. dialated. Melanie arrived at the hospital almost exactly when we did, she began stringing up her christmas lights and was right by my side, helping me breathe and manage my pain. around 3:45 a.m. I said "I need to push"!! The midwives checked me, and sure enough it was time! I will never forget Melanie taking my hand and saying "Do you realize what this means? You've made it, you are going to do this, you are going to push your baby out"- it was one of those moments you never forget. Her job wasn't over though, she helped me find a comfortable position to push in and coached me through my pushes. Encouraging me the whole time, and at 4:20 a.m. I successfully pushed my baby girl out! The whole experience was amazing! Melanie was a rock for me in that delivery room, and I just cant thank her enough for the experience she helped me achieve!
-Jamie Cafarella
July 11, 2014
Melanie Russell
A Brighter Birth
Birth Fee: $1800
