In ancient Hebrew, the term 'azar' means to help, support, or aid, which is essential during childbirth. Meanwhile, 'harah' refers to the one with child, emphasizing the importance of a birth doula in providing childbirth education and support.
Psalm 121:1-2
In 2016, I experienced a life-changing moment during the birth of my little sister, my parents' 6th child. It was the first childbirth I’d ever witnessed in person, and despite being young, I was able to be as close and involved as a birth doula would have been. The experience was unlike anything I’d ever encountered, and I was astonished by the passion and emotion I felt as I helped my mother breathe through the process. After that birth, I developed a deep love for childbirth and pregnancy. With a mother who has served as a doula for over 11 years and has given birth to over 10 children, I have been fortunate to experience pregnancy and birth in many different facets. I sought ways to engage in the birth community, learning about various avenues for childbirth education available to me. Additionally, I became aware of the struggles faced by black mothers, particularly the alarming rise in maternal mortality rates, inadequate care, unnecessary trauma, and the lack of accurate, effective education for new mothers and fathers. As I researched these issues, I realized how significantly doulas can contribute to achieving healthy birth and postpartum outcomes. I understood that birthing women need to feel supported, valued, and heard; they need to be informed about what is happening with their bodies and babies. This realization filled me with the desire to address these challenges and provide mothers with the birth experience and support they deserve. I am grateful for the Father’s guidance as I learn and grow, relying on Him for every step of my journey. The joy of supporting a mother as she brings her child into the world is unparalleled. I aspire to be part of the change in the broken birth system, showing women they can have the incredible birth experience they hope for and that birth is normal until proven otherwise. I hope to be of service to you.
Long before I began my journey as a birth doula in 2013, I had a deep passion for supporting pregnant mothers. This interest started in my childhood as the first-born grandchild, witnessing the arrival of new cousins and siblings. Observing family and friends during their pregnancies, I noticed that each expectant mother had her own unique style and experience in childbirth and caring for their newborn, which intrigued me. I knew I wanted to learn more and be a part of helping them through their journey. In high school, I shared my dream of becoming a midwife with my guidance counselor, who encouraged me to take a parenting class. This elective offered valuable insights into pregnancy, childbirth, and infant care. Later, our class received parenting simulator dolls to experience what new parents go through with their newborns, which thrilled me! After that class, I was certain I wanted to serve expectant mothers and their families through birth and postpartum support. However, it would take a few more years filled with life experiences before my passion for childbirth education could truly blossom. After giving birth to four children, including one of three traumatic birth experiences, and watching the documentary 'The Business of Being Born', I recognized the necessity of birth workers. I began seeking mentorship from seasoned birth professionals and attended trainings and conferences to equip myself to support my fellow womb-mates. My goal was to empower women with the information and support they needed, hoping they would feel heard, encouraged, and fulfilled. I never imagined I would have such diverse experiences—ten in total! Yet, these have only deepened my commitment to serving the pregnant and postpartum mama and her family in achieving their vision. When I'm not assisting expectant mothers and their families, I enjoy homeschooling, homesteading, spending time with my family, serving in the community, or helping someone find a home to live out their own story! Ahba willing, I look forward to serving you.
We aspire to bring hope, joy, and comfort to each family we serve during the precious time of birth and childbirth. Our goal is to give Our Heavenly Father Glory as we support families with childbirth education and the guidance of a birth doula.
1 Peter 4:10-11 - "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of Yahuah Elohiym's grace in its various forms. Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve Yahuah Elohiym."