Charlotte and Gabby’s Story
Having Nadine as our Doula was the best decision we’ve ever made. Our birth didn’t start as we’d planned with Charlotte’s membranes rupturing at 31 weeks, but the minute Nadine arrived we knew everything was going to be okay. And it was – we had the birth of our dreams despite the odds being stacked against us, and that would not have happened without her. Her knowledge, experience and serenity were invaluable. She has such a wide range of tools at her finger tips – from acupressure and massage, to yoga and active birthing techniques – that no matter what direction labour took she was able to come up with a suggestion that helped it to progress. She was a pillar of strength, support and guidance, not just for Charlotte as the birthing mother but also for me as the birth partner. Labour is a marathon for everyone concerned, and Nadine helped me find the extra bit of energy to cross the finish line! Not only was Nadine a second pair of hands, but she was also a second pair of ears. Having Nadine there gave us the confidence, strength and knowledge to stick to our guns and work with the medical team to try alternative approaches that were more in line with our birth plan.
Post-birth, Nadine’s support has meant the world to us. Starting life as a family out with a premmie baby in the Special Care Nursery hasn’t been easy, but having her guidance and support on hand to navigate things like breast feeding and Charlotte’s post-birth recovery has made all the difference.
Thank you Nadine from the bottom of our hearts – you are amazing!
Charlotte and Gabby
