At 35 weeks I was scared, anxious and highly uncertain about birth, to the point where I couldn’t even say the words ‘labour’ or ‘birth’ without getting upset. I’d heard people say that birth is beautiful, that it can be a positive experience and that you ‘leave with a completely new perspective’, and I honestly did not believe it, until I met Vanessa.

Vanessa and I were introduced through my obstetrician. In my head she was there for me to debrief, talk about my fears and maybe help with some labour positions. In reality though, Vanessa was the person I called everyday. She was the person who helped me realise my expectations, helped me ask the difficult questions to professionals, helped me navigate the hospital guidelines, she was the person I called when I was entering labour, was there for me on the way to the hospital, during the labour, when my baby entered the world and there for me postpartum. 

Vanessa made me feel safe, in a time I was my most vulnerable and scared. She encouraged and supported every decision I made. She was my voice when I had none and my biggest support in the birth suite. She ensured every person who entered the hospital room that day knew my story, my expectations, my choices and that I was in control.

Vanessa was also there for my husband. She was nicknamed ‘the baby lady’ by him early on in pregnancy. What Vanessa actually was though was a communicator, a translator, a hand to hold, a person to laugh and cry with.

I cannot express how grateful I am to Vanessa for the kindness, compassion and positivity she brought to our lives.  I truly believe that without her guidance and support I would have not had the outcomes and success I did.

Everyone needs a ‘baby lady’ at their birth, and I couldn’t think of anyone I’d rather share the experience with.

Claire