Testimonial for Joli Ammons
When I called Jolie, I was maybe 30% sold on the idea of a doula. I did not want a big showy delivery, I was scared of giving birth and I just wanted to get 'er done and come out on the other side with minimal PTSD. I told her that expecting her to try to convince me that she would make my birth experience "amazing" but she didn't, she was like "right on". My husband and I ended up really liking Jolie as a friend and relying on her heavily during my very challenged attempt to deliver naturally. At 1am, my prelabor transitioned to active back labor very suddenly, I was on an epidural and Pitocin for 10 hours waiting to dilate, then pushed for 4 hours with no progression. Jolie coached us through the prelabor and when to go to the hospital and showed up shortly after we got there. During the long wait to dilate I was unable to sleep because I was shaking and cold from the epidural, and Jolie kept me calm, telling stories and sharing her experiences - it was very therapeutic. My husband was able to get much needed rest while Jolie kept me good company. While I was pushing, she was a much-needed advocate as the nurse we had was unprofessional and did her best to discourage me. When I finally threw in the towel and elected for the c section, both my husband and I were devastated to find out Jolie couldn't come to surgery. She was able to be with us in the recovery room for enough time to help my son get a good latch and give me and my husband props. When Jolie came for the postpartum checkup, she discovered a tongue tie that turned out to be severe. I can't imagine my birth experience without Jolie. It was a rough delivery, but I feel good about it and I'm able to laugh about some of the worst parts because I never got truly scared. We felt like we knew what was happening, we had an advocate during times when we couldn't think, I felt like I was in control, and I was safe. Thank you, Joli!
-Ceren
February 11, 2022
Joli Ammons
The Painted Doula
Birth Fee: $1000 to $2800
