Gretchen was our doula during the birth of our first child. Lynsie and I were as prepared as we could be for Luke's birthday, but it was still a whirlwind. When we realized that Lynsie was in labor we called Gretchen and she met us at the hospital. One phrase that stuck with me from our preparation for birth was the definition of my role as a co-creator and protector of a sacred space for Luke's grand entry. Gretchen fit into the space that I wanted to create and protect perfectly. She was calming, she was confident, and she was willing to do anything for us. The one time I left the room during Lynsie's labor was at Gretchen's urging. I got a drink and a snack and called my in-laws before I headed back in. Gretchen held Lynsie's hand in my place, and Lynsie actually doesn't even remember when I left. She was being taken care of, and that's all she knew. I guess she was distracted or something. If I couldn't give Lynsie physical support during a contraction, Gretchen did it for me. When there was a complication, she stepped in to help our nurse/midwife team. When I lost my head for a minute, she reminded me that we had chosen our birth team for a reason and it was time to trust them. I was especially grateful for that. Gretchen's the best. If we have our way, she'll be there for the birth of all our kids.
-Gabriel Tippery
May 20, 2021
Birth Nerd Doula Care
Birth Fee: $900