Kate and Taylor
Rarely do you meet someone who is so skilled at a job or a task that one might consider them "born to do it'. Victoria, however, is just that: she was born to be a doula. Victoria met with us mulitple times throughout the pregnancy-starting at seven months through several weeks post partum. From the very beginning, she listened exactly to what I wanted. She spent hours listening to my preferences, my fears, my dreams and helped me create a birth plan that was exactly tailored to me. I wanted to give birth in a hospital with an epidural and she completely supported me in this. Going off my general understanding that doulas are super "crunchy," I was worried she might try to convince me not to have an epidural---but she did not. She completely supported my birth preferences, and spent time researching and showing me birthing techniques that could be used with an epidural. Over the course of three meetings, she drank tea with me and walked me through the birth process. She showed me exercises to do and inquired about my mental health. She made me feel so seen and cared for.
When I was in labor, Victoria was able to come right at the exact time I needed her. I honestly don't know what my husband and I would have done without her. She whisked through the door of my hospital room and immediately swung into action. I've never seen anything like it. Within minutes the lights were dimmed, essential oils were percolating, and her presence and energy made me feel like everything was going to be okay. She began applying counter pressure just in the ways that I needed it FOR HOURS, and knew exactly what to do. She provided support to both my husband and I. in ways we never could have anticipated. She was a Godsend.
My birth was particularly long-I was in labor for 28 hours and Victoria was there for about 20 hours of it. I won't get into too much of the nitty gritty, but it was complicated and some interventions were needed. I know it cheesy, but she laughed with me, cried with me, encouraged me, guided me, advocated for me, and helped me advocate for myself. Spending 20 hours with someone could get annoying with anyone, but Victoria was able to be present and support needed-but also fade back when needed. She had a sort of sixth sense in knowing what I needed. Out of five stars, I would give Victoria six.
Kayla and Hunter
I met Victoria back when we were young waitresses working at chuys. We both grew up and had babies, which then opened new doors for us. Victoria began to pursue her passion in helping mothers and families bring sweet life into the world.
By the time my second pregnancy came around I knew I wanted a doula and Victoria happened to be available to be that doula! She gave me so much knowledge and reassurance when I needed it. She even educated my husband in ways to help relieve different pains which was sooo helpful.
We had a beautiful birth plan made but unfortunately had to have a c-section. Although my birth didn’t go exactly how I had envisioned, Victoria was with my family and I every step of the way. She got to experience her first c-section with me(WHAT AN HONOR) and she was an incredible help and such a calm presence throughout my surgery. I had my husband holding my left hand and Victoria holding my right.
She was there to comfort me (and my husband), to sing my son happy birthday with everyone the second he made his debut, to watch him latch and nurse for the first time, and to have that first postpartum meal with me.
Her help did not stop once my baby arrived either. She came to my home for a postpartum visit and boy was it nice. Newborn life had sunk In and it was as if I was meeting her again for the first time, but as a new version of myself. A mother of 2. I will forever be grateful for Victoria and she will always hold a special place in my family’s heart.