Empowered Journey
Leila is the kind of person that words fail to describe how truly amazing she is, as a person and as a doula. We knew we wanted a doula for this baby, our third, as we wanted to do everything we could for the best chances at a VBA2C. From the first meeting at our house, we could tell that Leila puts her whole heart into everything she does. Through the weekly yoga sessions, unbelievably detailed prenatal appointments (both lasting over 4 hours), random text conversations, and sweet drop-ins to check how I was doing and encourage me toward the very end of my pregnancy, I felt fully supported, educated, empowered, confident in myself and whatever outcome I would have, and completely loved because of Leila's support. I actually had tears rolling down my cheeks in the first prenatal yoga class with her after hearing her encouraging words throughout the class knowing that if a VBA2C was going to happen, it was absolutely going to happen with Leila's help.
Toward the end of my pregnancy, I was having prodromal labor off and on. Leila, who had been in constant contact with me over a number of days, brought my family a home-cooked meal, did some Spinning Babies exercises, took a walk to help bring baby into position, and even drew me a beautiful bath to help me relax. These personal touches and attention to every thought or concern I had really impressed me.
During my 24 hours of labor, I believe she left my side twice and not for more than a few minutes. Her knowledge, intensity, love, education, and encouragement for birthing women is absolutely incredible. While the birth we ended up having (a c-section) wasn't what I had planned, it was what baby and I needed and I am so grateful. Because of Leila's support, I am able to look back and know I absolutely did EVERYTHING I could to try for a VBA2C and have no regrets. The healing and care that Leila helped to provide postpartum again blew us away. She stayed with us for hours when we got home from the hospital helping with nursing, caring for my older children, doing housework, and even helped in taking newborn pictures. It brings tears to my eyes knowing that I won't be seeing Leila like we have been as I feel like she became a part of our family these last 6 months. I will sing her praises to every pregnant mama that will listen that they need a Leila in their life!