Testimonial for Ires Wilbanks CD(DONA)
My birth experience showed up in my dreams months before my son arrived. I was speaking to Ires at the time about this vision and exploring my options for where to give birth. The tug I felt to work with Ires became so obvious - I just knew she would be a loving support who would wholeheartedly support my vision and encourage me to hold true to it. It feels almost impossible to fully articulate the impact this experience has had on me and my family. After the birth of my first child ended in an unnecessary c-section after a cascade of hospital interventions, I was determined to do anything in my power to avoid repeating this experience and instead, have a physiological birth at home. Ires was instrumental in helping me prepare for this. From our countless conversations exploring preparation, unpacking fears - there were many!, and setting up the conditions for my body to do what it's naturally designed to do, to the birth itself, and all the postpartum visits, tips and healing modalities, I am eternally grateful for her loving care and her ability to hold the space for my husband and me as we welcomed our baby at home. My profile anywhere else would have been pathologized, and in fact was during my early pregnancy visits to an OB. I was 40 years old, seeking a VBAC, my baby arrived 3 days passed his "due date," and my water broke 24 hours before labor started. At no point did I fear his arrival. Instead, I birthed in power with my husband, Ires and the rest of my birth team in the exact way I envisioned. My baby boy arrived in peace and surrounded by so much love. I wish this experience for anyone who seeks it. It is not an exaggeration when I say that it forever changed me and my family. Thank you, Ires, our hearts are indebted to you!
-Joanna Schwartz
May 20, 2024
Ires Wilbanks CD(DONA)
Shakti Yoga & Living Arts
Birth Fee: Not specified
