Testimonial for Dawne Herbert-Withers, MSW, CD(DONA), HCHD, CLE

Dawne Herbert-Withers was a driving force in helping me to achieve a successful and unmedicated VBAC in quite complicated and unfavorable circumstances. We met only twice prior to the labor, but her warmth, understanding and confidence were simply outstanding. Dawne is a very pro-active doula. She will really take care of you. When I passed the EDD, she put me in contact with the reflexsologist. After having the induction massage, I went into labor in the less than 48 hours. She also suggested me and my husband meet with the support group for VBAC and seek advice from some experienced doulas and midwives. All these helped me and my husband to build our confidence and be better prepared to the trials of labor. She was always a matter of fact answering my questions about various procedures in the hospital, she prepared an excellent birth plan, but most importantly she guided and coached me through each step of my 12 hour labor and delivery empowering, encouraging and directing me. It turned out I had a very painful back labor, but it felt like Dawne knew so well what I was going through every minute and it was very comforting. She constantly massaged me to relieve my pain. Dawne teamed up very well with my husband and built a good rapport with doctors and nurses in the hospital. I firmly believe if Dawne was not there with me, I wouldn’t have done it! Doula Dawne ROCKS!

-Yuliya Volkhonovych

June 16, 2012