Testimonial for Renée Ahmadi MA CD (DONA)
We interviewed several doulas before selecting Renée. She came highly recommended from close friends. Renée did not shy away from real, honest and tough conversations. She was with us every step of the way for a very complicated birth. What convinced us to invite Renée along our birth journey was her wealth of experience. Now at several months post-partum, we really appreciate her continuity of care, from pre-natal yoga classes, to virtual and in-person meetings, attending the birth at VGH and post-natal yoga mom & baby classes under the willow tree (which Forest loves).
Renée is a birth coach and mentor, who helped us prepare for the labour, experience it, and processing it after. We were in continuous communication with Renée who offered emotional and physical guidance. During the labour, she provided hands-on pain management support, so much so that I (Sarah) did not feel compelled to ask for pain medication. The whole time, Renée was very encouraging and vocal, offering concrete suggestions. At one point, Renée brought sparkling coconut water and strawberries to us in the (cozy!) hospital shower. Then shit hit the fan. The labour room quickly transitioned from a spa-like atmosphere to total chaos. I (Sarah) needed to be put under for the birth and my son was out in under 15 minutes. There was no time for my partner to scrub in and be beside me during the delivery, but Renée stuck with him offering much needed emotional support.
The birth will take time to process. Renée has de-briefed the experience with us and offered avenues to share our story, to contribute to a much needed dialogue about emergency c-sections, informed consent and reproductive mental health. We will never forget the care Renée offered in the lead up to the birth, during it and aftercare. We absolutely recommend her to anyone fortunate enough to connect with her on their birth journeys.
-Sarah, John & Forest
August 22, 2021
Renée Ahmadi MA CD (DONA)
FlexAbility Yoga and Doula Services
Birth Fee: $1400 to $1800
Postpartum Rate: $40 to $60
