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The path to becoming a doula has been a winding one for me! I had never even heard of the profession until I was pregnant with my first child and taking a class lead by a doula. At the time, I was using my degree in English, working as a technical writer and marketing person for a software company. I realized after my daughter was born just how fascinated I was with the whole process of pregnancy, birth and adjusting to a new baby. I believe in informed consent, evidence-based care, and the ability of women to give birth beautifully when they are supported and respected.
After my second daughter was born, I decided to finally pursue my dream of supporting childbearing women and their families. I completed my doula training
and became certified with Childbirth International
in May 2007. My girls are now 3 and 5 years old, and are, along with my husband Matthew, the lights of my life. They also think it's pretty cool that mom gets to go "help mommies and babies"!
Education & Training
- BA - Honours English, Rhetoric & Professional Writing & Applied Studies, Cooperative Program. University of Waterloo, 2001.
- 18-hour Lactation Management seminar, based on the WHO/UNICEF breastfeeding course. Kathy Ventner, 2003.
- Childbirth International Doula training
course. 2005-2007.
-
TENS training workshop. Doula C.A.R.E conference,
2007.
- "Inspiring Confidence in Maternity Care"
conference. Kathy McGrath, 2007. Topics included working
with survivors of childhood sexual abuse, helping clients deal
with fear, and tips for the postpartum period.
- Infant, Child & Adult CPR & AED
certification. Red Cross, 2008.
Professional Memberships
Volunteer Activities
- Breastfeeding Buddies peer-support volunteer, 2003-2007.
- Regional representative for Guelph on behalf of Doula C.A.R.E.
- Volunteer doula for Guelph and Fergus public
health units.
- Moderator on Breastfeeding Naturally, an online support forum.
- On the Board of Directors for
Centre Wellington Preschool.
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