FROM CHRIS
"I read all the books. I took all the classes. I thought I was prepared to be the rock my wife would need during her delivery. Boy was I wrong! When the time actually came and I was confronted with the incredibly primal experience that is childbirth, my mind went blank and I realized that all of my preparation was for nothing.
Thank God for Emily! When I had no idea of what to do or how to react, when my mind was racing out of control, all I had to do was watch her to find my way.
I knew that having a Doula would be a great help for my wife during the delivery, but what I didn't know was how important she would be to both of us that day. No matter what happened that day Emily was prepared, peaceful and confident; she kept both of us anchored and positive throughout the birth.
I know that no testimonial I write can truly express the gratitude I feel - whether it was bringing breakfast tacos that morning or her gentle guiding spirit in the more stressful moments, I simply can't thank her enough for her invaluable assistance on that magical, terrifying day!"
"I am honored to be Emily’s first birth experience. I was really open to what could happen with my birth with the goal of trying my best to go without medication. As I started to prepare myself and honestly assess the situation, I felt like I needed someone besides my husband to support me. I knew that he would be a unique source of support, but I also was realistic about his role in this whole thing too; he was about to become a dad, and I didn’t want to expect him to meet my every need while he was thinking about that as well as the health of me and the baby.
When Emily offered to be my birth assistant, I knew that would be the perfect fit. Her whole demeanor is so calming and caring, and I knew she would fulfill the role I needed. I think I can honestly say she is the most giving person I know, and she is a better person for it. I can see her gain strength through what she gives to others.
Emily’s preparation was mind-blowing. She came up with so many amazing and helpful ideas! We met together a few times to practice stretching, breathing, and some yoga poses. We also talked about how I would like the environment around me to be while in labor. We also came up with a mantra for me to focus on during labor. Emily really personalized each idea to me and followed through with practical tasks like bringing the items we talked about to our meetings and to the birth.
I am almost certain I would have needed an epidural if it wasn’t for Emily. Labor certainly wasn’t easy, but somehow it was at least easier with someone there just for me. Her preparation as well as her quick thinking made my birth go as smoothly as possible. It was the most exhausting, invigorating, and emotional moment of my life. Emily was there for me 100%. She has a way of knowing what it is a person needs in the moment, whether it be a joke, or silence, or a supportive statement, she listens with her ears and her heart."
"Having Emily Bessey as our doula was one of the best decisions I made during my pregnancy. She cared deeply about providing us with the support and guidance we needed during this special time. She has an amazing talent for her work and is clearly gifted.
My husband I met with Emily several times during my pregnancy. We talked about birth plans, possible challenges, and desired outcomes. She always made me feel empowered and treated me as her number one priority. I always felt like she was there for me to answer questions, provide information, and listen with an open mind and a caring heart. When my labor and birth experiences went in a different direction than I had planned, Emily was there to offer her support and help us through the experience with grace and as much ease as possible. When my husband and I were faced with making unexpected medical decisions in the hospital during the birth of our son, Emily stood by our side, giving us both space and presence in just the right amounts. She brought a wonderful mix of joy and professional demeanor to her role as our doula. I now feel as though I've made a friend for life.
If you have the opportunity to have Emily as your doula, I highly recommend you do so. Your pregnancy and labor/birth experiences will be enriched greatly."
