Dear Rebecca,

As soon as I found out I was pregnant I knew how important it was to find the "best" birth team; especially because we were living in a new town and I had my hopes set on a VBAC.  I also knew I wanted the most natural birth possible for my new baby.  One of the first things I did was internet search for doulas in the Brazos Valley.  This led to you and I am forever glad!  Your help started long before the "big day" - from encouraging me to find an excellent care provider, to expressing our different birth location options, to locating another VBAC mom for me to talk with and most importantly supporting me with my goals.  When other people questioned me, even my own mother, your possitive attitude was exactly what I needed.  This same energy helped me through my long labor.  Your help with massage, relaxation tips and words of encouragement were critical to me.  Since my husband was caring for our son during much of the time I labored at home, it also made him feel better to know you were completely there for me.  When my labor slowed down, I wondered if I could do it - you reminded me I could!  And in the husle and bustle of the hospital, your calm reassurance helped me to focus on my goal.  Giving birth was the most difficult thing I have ever done, but I have gained a true inner strength.  Something that so many people said was impossible was made possible - my baby is the proof!  It also meant a lot to me that you stayed after the birth to care for me.  The day a mother brings her baby into the world is one she never forgets.  You will be part of this very happy memory forever.

M________

 (If you wish to speak to this mom, she is eager to tell her story!  Please just contact me and I'll get you in touch with her).

Rebecca,

We cannot thank you enough for all of the care and support you provided us on H____ birthday.  We feel blessed you were there to share the most special day.

Fondly, M_______ and P___________

Rebecca,

Thank you so much for all of your patience and help during my birth.  The boys are very strong, healthy, active and true climbers.  Needless to say, my hands are full.  But I thank the Lord for them.

Happy Holidays, N____________

Rebecca , I just want to tell you something that I mentioned to J______ the other day that really surprised him. I told him that there has not been one single day that has passed since S_____'s birth that I have not thought about that day (and a half) of labor, my time in the hospital, all the work I did to birth him and the fact that I had a VBAC - I DID IT!!!  I'm not exactly sure why it continues to remain so important to me, but it does. I think it has something to do with validating my own strength, knowing that nothing is "wrong with me," and respecting that every birth is different and that is ok. I just want to thank you again for all of your help.

 S_________