Testimonial for Debbie Castelbuono
Debbie was our birthing doula for our first daughter, born April 2nd, 2012. When we met Debbie she was immediately calming! Her voice, manner and knowledge had a calming effect on both my husband and I. She spent almost two hours at our first meeting answering questions and reassuring us. We did not even interview any other doulas because we were so certain that this is who we wanted to help us through our first birth.
When my water broke before 6 am on a monday morning I knew immediately that the baby had had a bowel movement in utero so that it was likely I would have to deliver at the hospital instead of the birthing center. We arrived at the hospital all around the same time (9 am) and she immediately started to provide suggestions for supporting me through early labor (movement, distractions). The longest part of my labor, from probably 3-7 cm - my husband and Debbie were working together as I used hypnobirthing techniques to manage the pain. Debbie's voice was hypnotic and her presence relieved the pressure from my husband as she told him how to help me. He never had to wonder.
I was able to fulfill the most important part of my plan, which was having a healthy baby girl! I labored and delivered naturally thanks in a large part to Debbie's support of both my husband and I. Debbie also stayed an extra two hours after my baby was born to provide suppoort through our first breastfeeding experience. My daughter latched well from the start with her guidance.
The entire birthing experience was amazing and I would not change one thing. My husband and I have already said that if we are lucky enough to have another baby we will be calling Debbie - we could not have done it without her.
-PAULA GEGWICH
July 20, 2012
Debbie Castelbuono
Alcyone Blooms
Birth Fee: $1500
Postpartum Rate: $30 to $45
