Testimonial for Virginia Rivenbark, AdvCD(DONA), LCCE, CLC
To be honest, my husband and I decided not to go with a doula at first... I had heavily considered it, but at 12 weeks pregnant, I convinced myself that we would be fine without one. I told myself that my own preparations and having my husband there with me would be all that I needed. I wanted a natural birth more than anything in the world, and I read several books and watched several videos that helped prepare my mind and body. Countless hours were spent preparing myself for a natural birth.
A very dear friend gave us a doula as a gift, and it was Virginia. Obviously I was overwhelmed with gratitude, but I still don't know if I truly saw the value... that is, until the contractions began.
I'm telling you right now, if it wasn't for Virginia, I would not have had my natural birth. Even with all my studying and preparation and practicing, I was not ready. How could one be ready for birth? Having never experienced it before? Having her there was exactly what I needed to get through. She was not only there for me, but she was there for my husband. She made sure he was eating and drinking, she suggested ways for him to help me, and she said and did all the right things for me to achieve my dream. It was the hardest thing I've ever done, but also the most amazing thing I've ever done. I give her so much credit for the best day of my life. The amount of gratitude I feel towards her is immense, and I'll never be able to thank her enough.
Her services didn't end right when my daughter was born. She stuck around and made sure everything was okay, and she checked up with us days afterwards when we were back at home. This is embarrassing to admit, but during our first night home, I had a mental breakdown. I was afraid that I wasn't feeding my daughter and that she was starving, and she came over in the middle of the night to make sure we were okay. SShetruly cares and goes above and beyond the call of duty. I can't recommend her enough.
-Amy Rynhart
June 15, 2017
Virginia Rivenbark, AdvCD(DONA), LCCE, CLC
Preparing for Birth and Beyond, LLC
Birth Fee: $1200 to $1500
