Testimonial for Mariah Falin, CD(PALS), PPD, PES

After going over numerous doula reviews and profiles, then cross matched with a list of preferred doulas from the midwife group at NW Hospital, I found Mariah and Ildi of Birth Matters NW. After doing multiple interviews with other doulas, my husband and I decided to go with these amazing ladies for a few reasons: They are both knowledgeable in all things birth and baby, personable and overall just friggin’ great. When we first met them, we clicked with both of them and immediately felt at ease. We also took comfort in knowing that they work as a team and if one was with another birth (or unavailable for whatever reason), we'd get the other one!During our birth, my husband and I were fortunate enough to have Mariah with us for almost a solid 24 hours. In that time, Mariah was a constant positive force for us both. When she saw that I was tiring of one position, she prompted me into another, reminded me to take care of myself, snack and drink, all while exhibiting strength and calm. She was a great help to my husband, ensuring that he was caring for himself through it all as well.My goals for the birth of our son were for the experience to be a loving, relaxed and natural one. Though we didn't get the all natural birth we had practiced and planned for (because of circumstances beyond our control), with Mariah's help, we were still able to achieve that. In the end, we had our healthy son, we were sleep deprived, but intact, and the room was filled with love. At the risk of sounding redundant, what I found most valuable was just knowing that she was there. A constant and a support. And I couldn't imagine our birth going any other way.

-Heather Bardsley

March 25, 2016