Greg Lauretta and baby Duke
This is Duke, the one that started the ball rolling for my official "Doula-ship".
His lovely Mum, Lauretta, has been a good friend for many years, and when she became pregnant, I offered my services as a doula. Lauretta did an AMAZING job at his birth, staying focused and drug free til transition, and then only using the gas to help her get through the worst. I was incredibly proud of her and moved to tears several times during her labour because of her strength and determination to keep her baby safe.
Duke is currently still exclusively breast fed, and one of the most engaging babies I have ever met. I defy anyone to meet him and not response smile when they see this face!
This family started me down the path of becoming a professional doula because Rhette had not had a lot to do with babies or pregnant women before she became pregnant. Therefore she relied heavily on my support, so I wanted to be really sure of what I was doing. I did a lot of research, and finally enrolled with the Australian Doula College. I am so incredibly grateful for the trust, encouragement and support both Greg and Lauretta gave me in my quest to better myself and also in finding a role that I feel like I was born to fill.
Lauretta Lane said...
Wow Tammy, I was in tears reading your blog. Your belief in us gave me the strength to deliver our beautiful little man naturally. This was so important to me, due my brother being stuffed by intervention...so my goal was an intervention free labour which without you wouldn't have happened. We believed and trusted in you completely. At no time during the 17 hours did I feel fearful...(except when I walked into the hospital) I hate hospitals but honestly I did not fear labour with you by our side. Greg really enjoyed the experience as you took the pressure off him at the right times. Again thanks for providing the mirror as I will never forget that vision of Duke breathing his first breath. My dearest friend, I truly believe that Duke is so alert as he has has the best doula. Duke means Leader and he is living up to his name. He has changed our lives. Our Mantra.....I Love Labour...well not all of it. But the results are incredible.
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