Testimonial for Keelia Alder
Upon meeting Keelia, we quickly felt her warmth and authenticity. We also especially loved that Keelia is a strong advocate for birth justice. As educators committed to diversity, equity and inclusion work, her values were very much aligned with ours.
The night before the big day, Keelia coincidentally came over for our first prenatal visit to go over our birth plan. Early the next morning, my water broke and I called her frantically as our baby wasn't due for another five weeks! She calmly let me know to head towards the hospital when I felt ready that morning. Since we wanted to try for an unmedicated birth, Keelia prepared us on how to gently and firmly advocate for our needs, as she knew the doctors would insist on inducing me. When we got to triage, the ob gyn (as expected) did aggressively push induction. With Keelia's support over phone and text, we were able to negotiate for more time to let my contractions start naturally.
Once we got to the labor and delivery room, Keelia arrived shortly after, calm and steady as can be. Since we had not had our second prenatal meeting at the house, she gave my husband and me a crash course in what to expect and showed us massage techniques and positions to consider. Before leaving, she helped set up my room with candles and an oil diffuser (with oils she brought from her own collection)!
Soon after she left though, my contractions kicked in and gradually became stronger over a few hours. We did what we could on our own and when it felt like I needed Keelia, my husband called her and she arrived quickly. She coached me through the toughest parts, giving me positive affirmations, massaging my back, and feeding me ice cubes. With her coaching, I was able to have the beautiful natural hospital birth that I had planned for.
We are so grateful that we found Keelia and absolutely love that we will always think of her when we think of our son's birth.
-sandi
April 16, 2019
Keelia Alder
Full-Spectrum Doula
Postpartum Rate: Not specified
