Testimonial for Michelle L'Esperance from Tanya Lieberman

Testimonial for Michelle L'Esperance

Michelle was an indispensable source of support for us prenatally, at our birth, and postpartum.

Michelle was our doula for our second birth. Our first was a difficult experience, ending in a c-section and the hospitalization of our son. We were hoping for a better experience with our daughter, and in particular wanted to try to have a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). With Michelle's help we had a VBAC, and a far more positive experience with our daughter's birth.

Michelle's knowledge, experience, and faith in the natural process of birth made her a great match for us. No matter what question we asked or request we made, she provided the support we needed. She lent us a birth video to share with our son, provided resources to help get our baby in the optimal position, and answered diet questions. We really looked forward to our prenatal visits with her.

During my labor she was a tremendous support. With her help, I was able to labor at home for quite. Her training as a midwife helped us determine when it was time to go to the hospital. (She even had advice for the long ride: "Don't make any decisions in the car.") Whether she was quietly massaging me, helping me breathe through a contraction, or physically supporting me during the pushing phase, she made me feel safe and supported. She even took wonderful pictures of the birth and our baby's first hour. In the postpartum period she helped me process the birth experience, and provided information and support for physical recuperation.

We chose Michelle because of her great wealth of knowledge and experience, but also because of her manner. She has a wonderful combination of gentleness and strength. She is calm, patient, and empathetic, and supportive of mothers' choices and goals.

We wholeheartedly recommend Michelle to anyone seeking support from a doula. She's a special person with a real gift to share.

-Tanya Lieberman

September 17, 2010