I chose Cashew because I almost immediately felt loved and supported by her when we talked on the phone. I remember being hesitant to add another person to my birthing team, but her presence, even virtually, was so peaceful that I was excited to add her to my team.
I started my pregnancy with the desire to give birth in a birthing center. Complications of my pregnancy made this not safe for my son or me, and ultimately I needed a C-section. This was not for lack of trying. I started having contractions at 32 weeks. Every four minutes until he was delivered on week 39. To say that Cashew was a support system for me is an understatement. She helped ground me by being a person I could reach out to during a challenging time. She instilled in me my inner stress and the knowledge I had for my body.
There were many difficult decisions in my pregnancy. Many of them I did not want to make. Cashew was a solid rock that I used to help process these choices. She gave me complete autonomy in my choices but constantly challenged me to follow the status quo of my providers. My intentions were always honored. I was empowered every minute of my pregnancy.
When I decided to move forward with a planned C-section, Cashew not only honored my decision but celebrated it. She even met up with my husband and me to take pictures before the surgery. After surgery, she decorated the room with lights and a note to my son that said, "Orion, your mama is a badass."
Cashew supported me as an autonomous, intelligent human. She gave me power when I felt weak. I think back on my time with Cashew as beautiful. She supported my pregnancy in innumerable and immeasurable ways. I cannot thank her enough for the support she gave my family and the ways she empowered me to step into the woman I am today. She left a beautiful mark on my life, and I have no doubts she will only add to yours.
-Kailyn
July 08, 2022
Crescent Dream Doula
Birth Fee: $0 to $3500
Postpartum Rate: $60 to $65