Testimonial for Kim Turton Palmatary
When we first met Kim before the birth, I was immediately impressed by how warm and caring she is. A fantastic listener, she understood our preferences/concerns for the birth. I called Kim before the birth (How will I know when I have contractions?) and she was reassuring, telling me to trust myself and also to call her any time I have any concerns or worries.
As it turned out, my labour progressed very fast. I am relieved at how quickly she arrived, having feared we might have to do without her. To quote my husband, her arrival was like "the cavalry had come". Kim provided fantastic support, helping him know what to do and keeping him calm enough to support me. The two of them worked together to move me into different positions a few times. I am still impressed with how she can read a situation, and is able to ascertain what is needed even without input from mom - e.g. she suggested a couple of pushing positions that maximized my efforts and moved the labour along. Her Mary Poppins bag of tricks had very helpful tools and her knowledge of techniques was fantastic - but really what made the big difference for me was her coaching. Kim is reassuring but also clear and firm in her instructions. She is supportive and kind, but not mushy. If it wasn't for her helping me, this birth would have been a completely different experience; I cannot imagine not having had her there. After the birth, she expertly helped with my first breastfeeding experience.
Her postnatal visit allowed me to revisit the experience. With the help of her photos, Kim's respectful recounting of/conversation about what happened that night made me feel empowered; she helped me look back on what could have been a traumatic memory as one of the most beautiful events of my life. If you could use a fiercely loving advocate of a beautiful birth process (and really who can't?), then I would highly recommend Kim.
-Johanna S (Vancouver)
March 03, 2013
Kim Turton Palmatary
My Doula Birth
Birth Fee: $1450 to $1750
Postpartum Rate: $40 to $45
