Testimonial for Joyce Havinga-Droop CD(DONA), CLC, SpBCPE, BRM Pro
I was distrustful of the traditional medical field, especially when it came to childbirth. When I became pregnant I was unfortunately unable to find a midwife that I liked. The next best thing for me was to stay with my current OBGYN but search for a Doula to help be my advocate during the birthing process. After meeting Joyce we hired her almost immediately as we knew after our consultation meeting that it would be a good match. In hindsight, hiring Joyce as our Doula was the best decision my husband and I made during my pregnancy. Here's why. . .
Joyce opened our eyes to many things we had no idea about (delayed cord clamping, placenta encapsulation, delayed bathing) and explained them to us, while always providing educational links for us to do our own research. Prior to giving birth she was an amazing resource to bounce questions off of, and to help educate us (as best as possible) to "prepare us" for the birth.
Come birth day, she was a calming presence, helping my husband help me by showing him pressure points to help during my contractions, and explaining to us what stage we were in and what else was to come. She also documented the birth with photographs that are now so special to have. She stayed with me post delivery until my husband came back from the nursery with the baby so that I did not have to be alone.
Since delivering she continues to be a fantastic resource, drawing on her own experience as a mom and lending an open ear for any questions that come with motherhood. She is always there to provide resources, connect you with the right people and provide referrals as necessary.
Overall, I could not have been more pleased with our experience with Joyce. She provided all the tools to make the birth of my son Jack exactly the way I had envisioned it.
-Atina Gordon
May 28, 2015
Joyce Havinga-Droop CD(DONA), CLC, SpBCPE, BRM Pro
BirthAmbassador
Birth Fee: $3250 to $4500
