If you're in need of a doula, I highly recommend Juliann! While she wasn't technically the doula we hired, she stepped in and stepped up for her sister in ways that no one else could. She demonstrated the perfect amount of restraint and support by being the best distraction to Kat (my partner; her sister) when desperately needed....and other times, the rock I just couldn't be....the rock only a sister can be). She knew just what she needed and when, and we intuitively worked with one another to be there for her every step of the way. Going into labor, Kat was sure she didn't want any family in the room while I always felt that as soon as things got rolling, she was going to need her sister. So without any advance notice and with a fully booked schedule and child of her own, Julie dropped everything to travel hours to the hospital (and back a few times while we rested) and be there with Kat until our little one came earth-side.
As a queer couple (I'm trans and my partner is non-binary), I can say that there aren't many doula's out there that even recognize that there can be birthing persons with different genders - that include those bodies in these predomenantly/societally female spaces. With Julie, you can be sure that as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, your body, wishes, partner dynamics, pronouns etc will be honored, respected, and uplifted.
During our birth, I got to witness Julie as she realized this was her calling. I was moved, touched, and so honored to be able to experience this moment of hers, and I genuinely can say there isn't anyone I'd trust more with your care.
While Julie is just starting out in this field, she has a drive to excel and learn, and I'm witnessing firsthand her dedication to becoming an expert in this field.
- Jude O.