Testimonial for Anne Schuchman from Lana Mustafa

Testimonial for Anne Schuchman

Anne is such a wonderful person. I really feel lucky to have had her as my doula.This was my third child, and I knew I wanted an all natural birth. She gave me a lot of information and links. We had 3 prenatal visits at my home, what I liked most about those visits was that the conversation was so natural, it wasn't a question and answer situation. As soon as I let Anne know i was in labor she was on her way. At the hospital my m.w. broke my water and I got right into the shower. Anne seemed to have a magical bag or something, because as soon as I would ask for something it would appear in her hands. She had all kinds of things available to me, ex chapstick, lollipops even scented oils. While I was in the shower she gave me some lavender oil, the scent really helped me relax. The most significant thing Anne did was the hip squeezes. They were like instant pain relievers! After about 20 mins I came out and she continued with the hip squeezes. After about 10 mins I began feeling the urge to push. My m.w. confirmed it was time to start pushing. I should also mention that I had quite the audience in the room with me. last minute my mother and my mother in-law asked to attend. Even though they were there to support me I mainly relied on Annes help. At one point while I was pushing Anne seemed to fade into the background. Once I realized she wasn't there I let go of who ever was holding me and began calling for her. It goes to show what kind of person Anne is, with just a few visits I felt like I knew her forever and I trusted her with my life. While I was pushing, I remember thinking about how thirsty I was, suddenly Anne appeared with water. After a few minutes of pushing my son was born. I was in complete shock, I really thought I was dreaming. Anne stayed by my side the whole time, she even helped take some pictures. She made sure the baby latched on correctly before she said her good byes.

-Lana Mustafa

January 11, 2013