As first-time parents living in a new state without family or friends nearby, we knew we wanted extra support during pregnancy and birth. We had heard about the benefits of hiring a doula for labor and delivery, but what we didn't realize until we met Jorie was how much support a doula truly provides before, during, and long after birth. Around five months into my pregnancy, we interviewed three doulas to make sure we found someone who was the right fit. We instantly connected with Jorie. Her kindness, communication style, and depth of knowledge immediately put us at ease, and we hired her on the spot. After meeting for coffee, Jorie came to our home to get to know us, meet our dogs, and see us in our own environment. She provided educational resources during our visits and followed up with thoughtful emails so we could continue learning and revisit information whenever we needed it. She helped guide us through creating our birth plan, ensuring we understood all of our options so we could make informed decisions and set realistic expectations for ourselves. One of the greatest gifts Jorie gave us was helping us build our support team beyond our OB-GYN, primary care provider, and pediatrician. She encouraged us to connect with an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), a lymphatic drainage specialist, and a pelvic floor therapist before birth. Those professionals, along with Jorie, became an integral part of our care. Their expertise helped us not only navigate pregnancy but truly thrive throughout postpartum. When it came time for our hospital birth, Jorie was there every step of the way. She carefully documented details from our birth experience and, a few weeks later, met with us to walk through our birth story. That conversation was incredibly healing. She helped fill in gaps from moments we couldn't fully remember, process our experience, and find closure. Having that opportunity allowed us to move into the postpartum chapter with greater confidence and peace. What continues to amaze me is that Jorie's support didn't end there. She has stayed in touch throughout the years, checking in on us and our little boy, who is now turning two. She has become part of our family's story, and we love her dearly. If you're on the fence about hiring a doula, I encourage you to meet Jorie for a cup of coffee and learn more about what she offers. I also encourage you not to let cost be the only factor that keeps you from exploring doula support. Looking back, the guidance, education, advocacy, and care we received before, during, and after birth were some of the most valuable investments we made as new parents. Jorie's impact on our family has been immeasurable, and I cannot recommend her highly enough as both a doula and future IBCLC.
— Jessica H.
