Testimonial for Melissa F. Haley (they/she)
Melissa was incredible and helped us through so many steps of preperation, labor and the newborn phase. Their expertise and experience were perfect.
We had our third kiddo (second pregnancy, first one was 8 years ago with twins) in 2023 and it was an amazing experience. From the moment of the first interview with Melissa, it was clear that they provided an impressive balance of expertise and empowerment. As a queer couple going through this with some unusual wrinkles, including the non-birthing partner Jordi inducing lactation so she could also feed the baby, Melissa's constant refrain of supporting us and our choices was beautfiul and also critical.
This support started with lots of conversations and documentation, including helping talk through what would happen with our 8 year old twins, who were understandably nervous but were so comforted by some conversation and activities with Melissa. The highlight for us was a labor and birthing experience at the Birth Center of Chicago, where Melissa worked so well with the midwives to help continue that thread of empowerment for Maria.
Coming home from the Birth Center, even having done this before with the twins, we felt like we were tossed into the deep end again and Melissa was there for us once again with some snacks, meetings and lots of attentive texting. I recommend anyone looking for an empowered birth, but especially anyone who has some caution due to identity or other reasons, to talk with Melissa and see if they are a fit.
-Jordi + Maria
March 11, 2024
Melissa F. Haley (they/she)
M.Ed., CD, CBE @wyld_garden
Birth Fee: $275 to $1800
Postpartum Rate: $35
