Testimonial for Christine Goldman Redmond

* Continued from above* On the day of the delivery, my husband helped me through seven hours of contractions at home. Unlike the first time around, he was a marvelous source of support. When we got to the hospital, Chris met us there. From the beginning, she served as my advocate in her quiet but strong way. I got into the tub several times. When the pain became too intense for me, Chris helped me find my focus and gain control of it. I made it to 10 centimeters dilated without any medications. Like the first time around, the pushing part was the hardest for me. Again, Chris was my strongest advocate and suggested positions to help move the baby along. Ultimately, the doctor suctioned Penelope out, enabling me to have a successful VBAC. Without Chris’s help and her influence on the surrounding staff, I would likely have had another emergency c-section. The VBAC outcome had the unexpected joy of enjoying my baby right away, nursing her, and witnessing her alertness for the next several hours. I will always remember these hours, so unlike the original experience, which was one big haze. Afterwards, Chris visited me and was very good at helping me process the birth experience. I had experienced severe tears in getting the baby out, but her emphasis on the skills of the doctor and on the competency of the staff helped me to accept my particular outcome. The physical part of the delivery has healed quickly. Mentally, it has been a much more satisfying birth experience, one that I can draw upon for strength; one that gives me dignity as a woman; and one where my husband came through beautifully. Chris was absolutely instrumental in this whole process. If it is your first time giving birth, and you are considering a doula, I would urge you to call Chris. I wish I had the first time around, but am so glad I did not make the same mistake twice.

-Grace Huang

December 08, 2012