Side note: I'm writing this story as I nurse the most beautiful little girl. She will be 2 months old next week and I couldn't ever imagine life without her 😊~ Tamara

When I found out I was pregnant I knew I wanted a more natural birth in the most comfortable space available. Since home births aren't legal in NC, I researched and found a birth center opening nearby. Once that was decided, I looked into hiring a doula for support, not only for myself but my husband as well. After a few failed interviews, I was starting to think we would never find a good match. Then the "heavens opened up" and we found Lori after she was referred to us by the birth center manager who had used her services during the birth of her own daughter.

 

Lori helped us every step of the way and gave us a sense of confidence that would have been absent without her. She was always available and never made us feel like we were a bother before or after our baby was born when we had questions. She was there to assure me that there was no emergency going on during my most intense moments of birth, that everything was normal and my body was doing everything perfectly. She was a comfort during my most vulnerable time and held my hand as she walked me through to the finish line.

 

For my husband, she helped him to stay informed along the way and helped define his role during the birth process. She suggested different coping techniques and helped him to feel included and not just a spectator.  She was there for me with exactly what I needed at that moment whether it was position change, a hand to squeeze or merely a gentle head nod of encouragement when my eyes confessed all of my fear and anxiety. The level of care and attention that Lori provides is nothing short of exceptional. I am so grateful that she came into my family's life and we have made a lifelong friend.