Testimonial for Melissa F. Haley (they/she) from Liz

Testimonial for Melissa F. Haley (they/she)

It's taken me a long time to sit down and write this simply because I don't feel like I could ever find the right words to express how deeply thankful we are to have had Melissa with us during the pregnancy and birth process.

From our very first digital meeting I could tell that Melissa was the kind of person who was truly holistic in their approach, trusting both scientific evidence as well as sacred wisdom passed down through the ages. At our first in-person meeting she came with a bag with crystals, research articles, exercises, and more. Each item was thoughtfully chosen and incredibly appreciated. It was extremely important to me was that our doula understood that my husband was my #1 support person, Melissa completely understood that and was there to support us as a unit, I never felt like she stepped into his space or role.

I had planned on an unmedicated hospital birth. Melissa helped me think through why that was what I wanted and I felt so supported as I prepared. As we approached the due date she was quick to text back and was always ready with a funny GIF, laughter really is the best medicine (especially when you're super impatient.)

After about 24 hours of labor, my contractions began an abnormal pattern and I no longer felt like I could continue unmedicated. I asked for an epidural and even though everyone knew that wasn't part of my plan, she was so in tune with me that not for a moment did I feel like she didn't believe me or support me when I changed my mind. She was there to support my husband when he had to leave the room while the epidural was put in and encouraged us to rest while it worked it's magic.

My birth experience was very different from what I had planned but because of Melissa I can look back on it and smile knowing that I was well informed and fully supported the whole time.

And now I'm out of space. I wish I could say more.

-Liz

November 30, 2021