Testimonial for Adriana Babler, Ph.D., CD(DONA) from Amanda Niznik

Testimonial for Adriana Babler, Ph.D., CD(DONA)

My husband and I recently had the pleasure of receiving Adriana's support for a second time. Our first son was born in 2012 and, like most first-time parents, we felt prepared but overwhelmed. I was especially emotionally overwhelmed because I miscarried in the past and had huge fears when it came to the sensations of labor since the only thing I associated with sensations of contracting was miscarriage and disappointment. Adriana was there for me from the start - to work through emotional issues and of course later to answer pregnancy questions and support us through the actual birth. I was surprised to find out I'd have to be induced for our first but I still got the birth that I want thanks to Adriana's support. The second time around I still had so many questions during my pregnancy that I wouldn't have felt comfortable asking my provider - Adriana perfectly bridged the gap between loved one and medical provider that doulas are supposed to. I had concerns about our toddler's reaction to the baby, among other things, and I felt like Adriana was there to pat me on the back and offer suggestions galore. The day I actually went into labor with our second child, my husband and I must've called her ten times asking "is this normal?" questions and created a game plan for meeting at the hospital. After a quicker and much different labor than the first, I eventually had a second, epidural-free birth thanks to Adriana. I say all the time that I truly could not have done it without her and I mean it. Really, it's a struggle to write a concise testimonial about Adriana because her support throughout both of my pregnancies and births (and beyond) cannot be summarized or comprehended so simply. She is and was no less important than any other member of the family. Her education, experience, emotional intelligence, and certain something that I can't put into words makes her the most special doula around. She is my wise angel and I feel blessed just to know her!

-Amanda Niznik

February 11, 2016