Testimonial for Laura Fortner, CD(DONA)
After feeling dazed and confused with the type of birth I wanted- because I had an unsupportive OBGYN at the time, I decided to search for a doula. Laura Fortner was the first doula to pop-up when I searched on doulamatch.net which I heard about from MamaNatural. I knew I wanted a natural, unmedicated, vaginal delivery, but I had so many questions. I emailed Laura after discussing the possibility of having a doula with my husband. He was very supportive of me searching for one. I had a few doulas selected, but only set an appointment with Laura. Her office was so close to my work and she helped me right away via email.
When I met Laura, she hugged me. I had never met this woman before, but I felt closer than ever. When I walked out of her office that day, not only did I have the reassurance that I could give birth how I wanted to give birth and she would be there to support me and help my husband support me, she gave me several recommendations for doctors, hospitals, and so on. She invited me to support groups online and was incredibly understanding with my timeframe to "think about it" before I chose to have a doula. We did it! I knew she was everything I wanted from the first email response, and quite coincidently her wedding anniversary was my due date. God led me straight to her.
I went through a month of prodromal labor and Laura was there through it all. She answered my texts and questions in a way that made me feel empowered and confident about my body. She worked well with my doctor and stayed in constant communication in the last few days before birth. When it was time, I headed to the hospital and Laura was there with incredible support and knowledge of how to facilitate the birth with breathing, movement, etc. She coached my husband in a way that he so much appreciated. She affirmed me in so many ways.
Because of Laura Fortner, I had the birth I envisioned and my little family is forever grateful.
-Hillary Kotwal
July 13, 2016
Laura Fortner, CD(DONA)
Voted Best Doula in Collin County
Birth Fee: Not specified
Postpartum Rate: Not specified
