Testimonial for Shelia Kandeler, CD(DONA)
Shelia proved to be invaluable to my husband and I. My husband said having someone there with a breadth of knowledge that he didn’t have made him feel more secure. She made me feel as though her support was unconditional. During her prenatal visits with me she took the time to get to know me and my preferences for a positive labor experience. She kept in touch and let me know she was always available to me if needed. Her knowledge and suggestions made me feel more confident and secure about my own hopes and desires for a natural labor and safe birth.
At the hospital, she became the much needed friendly intermediate between me and the nursing staff. At 8cms I was ready to rip someone’s head off if I couldn’t get into a hot shower immediately. I remember being asked to lie on my back in bed to keep the belly monitors in place and wait for the slowest nurse on the planet to get the heplock in. Shelia enhanced my communication with the staff, helped them understand that I needed comfort and got me into the shower right away. When my confidence waivered during the harder contractions she was right there to help me through it. She reminded me of my breathing techniques and gave me different tactics to use when mine no longer worked for me. I really loved how comfortable she made me feel around her and with the less than flattering process of labor.
After the birth of my son, Shelia stayed for as long as we needed. She took pictures of my family and helped ensure breastfeeding was off to a good start. Thanks to her I have an amazingly positive memory of my experience.
-Noelle Finlay
February 01, 2012
Shelia Kandeler, CD(DONA)
A Doula Chick
Birth Fee: $2000 to $2500
Postpartum Rate: $60
