Testimonial for Melissa F. Haley (they/she)
Being pregnant during a pandemic is hard. This is my first baby and a lot of the joy and excitement that should have surrounded this occasion was lost as most of my family and friends never actually saw me pregnant in person. I was apprehensive about birth, the labor process and the inability to have more than one support person when it was time to deliver my baby. Melissa took the time to really listen to all of my concerns with a high level of empathy and commitment to actively listening. I would have loved to work with her in person and have her by my side when it was time for the baby to come, but she assured me that we would make it work despite the physical distance. I always felt heard, loved, and valued. She even crocheted me the sweetest baby blanket and mailed it to my home. It is now our favorite blanket. Understanding my concerns, she provided me with a plethora of resources to support me, from readings, to articles, websites and videos, I always appreciated these sources. She encouraged me to have a labor project to focus on during the beginning stages of labor and this was extremely helpful. By the time I got to the hospital, I was 4-5 cm dilated and it only took 4 hours before I met my baby for the first time. I added her to a group message with my husband and she was even able to share tips and ideas with him. Overall, I had a smooth labor, healthy baby, and positive experience as a result of having Melissa's support as my doula.
-Nicole Madu
September 24, 2020
Melissa F. Haley (they/she)
M.Ed., CD, CBE @wyld_garden
Birth Fee: $1450 to $2200
Postpartum Rate: $40
