Testimonial for Laura Fortner, CD(DONA) from Catherine Dianne

Testimonial for Laura Fortner, CD(DONA)

I was referred to NDDA from my OBGYN. I was looking for a birth doula to compliment by great healthcare team. I got in touch with Laura and she did an amazing job walking me through the entire process. A few weeks later she met me for lunch just to get to know each other. After having been through several pregnancy losses, I was a very anxious expectant mother. Laura helped calm my anxiety and answered any and all questions I asked of her. Whether it was going through what to expect during delivery, or what to pack for the hospital, she was a wealth of knowledge.

Finally, delivery day came and Laura was there to help me breath through it. I had a high-risk pregnancy and a tough induced delivery, and it helped so much to know I had an advocate and expert at my side. Laura arrived when I was about 5cm dilated, and despite having opted for an epidural, I could not imagine getting through the rest of the delivery without her. She talked me through pushing and held my hand as our little boy came screaming into the world. When he had issues breathing and needed to be taken for an evaluation, Laura stayed with me, allowing my husband to stay with the baby. The comfort she provided in that scary time is immeasurable.

Even after delivery, Laura has remained a great help. She came for our postpartum visit and provided great insight into breastfeeding. Most than anything she provided encouragement to continue on in those early weeks. She is forever a part of our family now, having played such an important and intimate part of our experience.

I could not imagine going through this experience without her and would recommend her and NDDA to any woman seeking assistance.

Thank you, Laura, for all you've done for us!

-Catherine Dianne

October 15, 2017