“Be as you are. I just want to come and be supportive. Would you like me to pick up coffee or breakfast while I’m en route?”
The only thoughts running through my mind that moment while about to have our postpartum visit with Renee were, naturally, where did this human come from; and then (perhaps more curiously), what kind of world would we have if every woman had access to a doula like Renee during such an intense experience, arguably the most purposeful one of our lives? And how would that maternal empowerment translate to raising future generations of happier, healthier children?
When you find yourself reflecting on one woman’s potential to affect change on a global societal scale, I think it’s safe to say you found yourself the right doula.
Working with Renee has frankly changed my understanding of what it means to trust my body and my intuition. For me, what started as a chaotic, anxiety-ridden hospital induction at the 11th hour evolved into an experience I look back upon with love and laughter and such internal peace. And all of that is because of the safe psychological and physical space Renee created for my husband and me during (and after) our child’s birth. (continued below)
-Lina Reznik Markman
March 13, 2022
Tribe of Mine, LLC
Birth Fee: $2000 to $3000