Elise had been recommended to me by a friend and we knew as soon as we met her that she was the calm, knowledgeable guide that we wanted by our side throughout our journey. Our feelings were amplified when at 6 months pregnant, Covid hit and we were overcome with a whirlwind of emotions and questions. Elise was our constant. She provided us with evidence based information that didn’t feel overwhelming and always offered to answer any and all questions that popped up. She followed up after appointments and helped me decide what to do once my baby decided to hunker down in the breech position. (This was not my plan at all and Elise knew that.) She offered continuous support and assured us that regardless of the way our baby entered the world, it would be a beautiful experience. After weeks of hanging off the couch trying to “spin” my baby, she accompanied us to an unsuccessful ECV. That process was more emotionally taxing than I expected and both me and my husband were glad she was there to provide honest insight in the happenings to come. Walking into the hospital in the day of my c-section was one of the strangest feelings but we were comforted in knowing that Elise would be meeting us there. She guided both me and my husband through all of the initial preparations and stayed with him while the team placed my epidural. During birth, Elise provided even more reassurance, made sure our wishes (and even music selections) were known in the OR, and took some of our most treasured pictures from that blissful day. She was always quick to respond to any questions I had post-partum (no matter the time of day or the subject)!
While my daughter’s birth was not what I originally expected or planned for, it was the best day of our lives. A large part of that is due to Elise’s calm demeanor and support, and for that we are forever grateful. Thank you Elise for the guidance, friendship, and love you shared with us!
-Sara Nicholas
March 27, 2021
Elise Benoit Doula Services, A Brighter Birth
Birth Fee: $1600
Postpartum Rate: $35 to $40