Testimonial for Mariah Falin, CD(PALS), PPD, PES from Laura Lemire

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

When we met Mariah and Ildi, I knew they were a good match. Both struck me as super strong, competent women. Both were self-possessed in a way that gave me great confidence in their abilities and made me feel reassured about their presence at our daugher's birth. I appreciated Ildi and Mariah's different brands of warmth. I was impressed by their commitment to continuous education about childbirth.

I had great pre-birth meetings with Mariah and Ildi. As an older, plus-sized mom, my confidence needed work! THey both helped me build confidence and trust in my body. Both gave me exercises to do with my husband to increase my comfort. They also checked in with me emotionally to determine the type of support I needed. Both were helpful in recommending books, other professionals (e.g., accupunturist) and activities I could do while in the last weeks.

My pregnancy went well past the 40 week mark. Mariah and Ildi gave me tips to induce labor and helped me stay centered as I waiting for signs of labor. Both were available via text messge and were very responsive. When I went into active labor, Mariah gave my husband tips to increase my comfort over the phone, and she came to our home very quickly. I was so relieved when she showed up!

Mariah remained with us for 30+ hours! I had complications and eventually a surgical birth. Mariah took great care of me and my husband. She worked tirelessly to make sure I was as comfortable and sane as possible. Mariah helped us work through difficult decisions and explained things when my nurse/doctor failed. In the weeks after my birth, Mariah helped me emotionally process aspects of my birth, which helped me get over some hard feelings I had about how everything went. And, Ildi gave me some good advice regarding breastfeeding. I'm so grateful for Mariah and Ildi! I recommend Birth Matters NW to any expecting families.

-Laura Lemire

November 06, 2016