Throughout my career, I have looked for ways that I (and other birth workers) can serve with the longevity and enthusiasm that matches our dedication to serve. I receive over 100+ messages on social media monthly. Often, I feel guilt for not being able to reply instantly to each message. I've begun a new 'Phone Support' program on my website. I'm able to manage inquiries without distractions so I can provide 100% client-focused support.
Read More"Earlier this month I got to share a postpartum visit with a Lactation visit at a Doula client’s home. It was the first time Amanda Woolen CLC (Certified Lactation Counselor) had been out in action since having her baby 4 weeks earlier. It was such a joy getting to see her back in action! This particular family was sent home from the hospital with..."
Read More"Her name is Amanda. Alone, she kneels in the birthing pool surrounded by only water with my hands holding hers. She was distracted by doubts about her abilities to manage the pain and a swirling flood of emotions, as her body began to prepare her for delivery. In this moment, a Doula needed a Doula. When we all find ourselves stripped down to our vulnerable places, may we all lift each other up. In labor and in life."
Read More“This was our third baby and we wanted/needed that support person who would help us advocate for ourselves and see our birth plan respected. This was, by far, our best birth experience. We felt more educated, supported, and given space to treat birth as the natural process it is.”
Read More“One thing I’d like you to get from this post is that it is ok to be brave and break tradition. Practical gifts will make birth and postpartum a positive experience for the whole family."
Read More"My husband was very supportive, educated and calm when it came to birth and I was confident in my ability to birth my baby. Yet, my story doesn’t lack in traumatic moments. My desire to prevent such outcomes for other mothers was the motivation to share my birth story for it also inspired me to start My Sunshine Birth Services."
Read More"As most of you know my life’s work has become advocating for improved maternal health and increased birth options for KY families. This fall I have the opportunity to take that work to a national level while learning advanced advocacy skills to help me better serve KY families..."
Read More"As we get close to our 2 year anniversary for “Meet the Doulas” (MTD) I’ve been thinking back on all the families we’ve met and all the good times we’ve had at Spencer’s Coffee. Mostly I’m wondering where time has gone. How has it been 2 years?!?!"
Read More"It’s hard balancing advocacy work and running a business. Throw in motherhood, nurturing your marriage, participating in farm life and self-care, then it all starts to seem impossible. It was through hearing your stories and understanding the need for increased maternity care options, education and support that My Sunshine Services was born."
Read More"If you are here because you just tuned into WBKO Midday Live thank you for watching. If you’d like additional information on the Foula Training or the trainer please visit the sites below. A big thank you to Laura Rogers and WBKO TV for having me on for this announcement."
Read More"Last month, My Sunshine Birth Services hosted the 2017 Doula and Lamaze Reunion in Bowling Green, Kentucky. It was the first attempt and a successful one. The night was documented by Samantha Steen Photography and I've included a gallery of some of my favorites."
Read More"Students are typically in their 3rd trimester at their 1st Lamaze class, and fairly close to meeting their baby. I often find myself wishing they had known some pertinent information much earlier in pregnancy or even prior to conception. This led me to compose a list of 10 things to know BEFORE pregnancy that I talk about now in Pregnancy Prep Workshops."
Read More"I had people LITERALLY jump back from my booth at health fairs. I heard gagging, choking and obscenities. By the end of 2014, I had encapsulated for 24 local clients. All the pieces suddenly fit together as my education, advocacy and word of mouth from clients started opening people's eyes to the benefits of placenta capsules."
Read More"I am NEVER offended by someone not knowing the specifics of my job, because I'm aware it isn't a common career choice. Personally I hadn't even heard the word Doula until I was 25 years old and had already been through a pregnancy and loss. Therefore if you answer no there is absolutely zero judgement and I'm happy you've taken the first step to learn what a doula is."
Read More"Suddenly, my birth experience went from beautiful to traumatic. It was fast; only lasting 4 minutes from the time the on-call doctor arrived, to the time my baby was born via instrument delivery. It was however 4 minutes of my life I’ll never forget. I searched for someone to reassure me I'd be ok, and there I found my Doula. Somehow, her support was still there even amongst the chaos."
Read More"If you are a partner to a pregnant women and are feeling overwhelmed, you will want to meet us! We are an awesome group of helpful, fun, informative women. We have specific answers for you on any questions you have about local birth professionals, care providers, hospitals, childbirth education, etc..."
Read More"The My Sunshine Birth Doulas have been busy this past week with training, workshops, and networking. I'll be doing a series of blog entries to let you know about all the adventures we've been on. Here is our first stop Nashville's New Freestanding Birth Center.
Read More"I couldn't have done it without my husband. If at any point Les had said, "breastfeeding is too much trouble" or asked to give Marley Ann formula so I could rest, I might have given in. May all KY Dads support Breastfeeding and be heroes to their babies!"
Read More"I felt a very negative energy come over me. With every dirty dish or piece of trash or scattered mail I saw I started getting upset and placing blame. Who left THAT there? Why is this here? Why could Marley not have played on her own this morning?"
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