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Wyld Garden
Reproductive Support: The Sacred & The Scientific
Testimonials
Working with Melissa has been so healing and grounding. They are like a lovely butterfly on the wall. Their presence during our birth was so whole as they held space for us, advocated for us and allowed us to take up space. They have so much knowledge that diminished our fear while not needing to prove how much they know. We recommend them ten fold! They also are so available and never dropped the ball on us. They are timely and very organized! We shout at the top of the mountain recommending them!
Tosha & Christina
Words can barely describe the perfection that was my experience with Melissa! I specifically searched for a doula that was queer-affirming. Look no further if you want affirming and supportive care... not just care, a special relationship for this special time in your life. As a first time pregnant person and parent, I was put at ease during my first consultation with Melissa. They have a calm and open energy, and with their lack of judgment along with pearls of wisdom naturally sprinkled in our conversation, I knew I'd be in good hands. Melissa brought so many cool educational tools to our prenatal visits! From a model pelvis and baby to show what's happening during birth, to showing me how to use all three different types of baby carriers I was gifted, to SO much info about birth... the list goes on. It was comforting to learn so much about our bodies and birthing, to prepare my mind and body, to share with Melissa what support I think I'd need, and to learn about all the options and choices that are mine; not those of the medical provider. Cut to... labor! I'm still anxious even thinking about labor, but Melissa made it more bearable. They were also there providing full support during my 4 hours of pushing at the hospital, and the midwives and staff loved working with them, even asking Melissa for advice at one point! Clearly, I could go on and on. But when someone you find for pregnancy and birth support feels like family, you know you've won the jackpot.
Final thought: Unless your spouse or your parent is an actual doula... they are NOT doulas. Get Melissa.
Renee
"Melissa showed us what stamina and cool confidence look like during the delivery. Though my wife had to initially be induced (contrary to our birth plan), Melissa spoke with us about the experience we were beginning and gave my wife renewed courage and lifted her spirits. When she met us at Prentice Women's Hospital in downtown Chicago, she immediately set up the room with lights and inspirational art. She talked with my wife about pain management options and supported my wife's decision to proceed without both pitocin and an epidural. Melissa showed me how to reduce my wife's pains during contracting, she mirrored helpful breathing, and spoke calming words.
She's worth every penny and many more."
Joe & Sarah
"Melissa arrived at 11:00 PM & was a burst of energy, equipped with twinkle lights, essential oils, a homemade electrolyte drink & a menu of positions to find comfort in. Throughout our hours of labor, Melissa was such a calm presence. When I think of labor, I think of my husband behind me & Melissa in front of me, giving affirmations & holding my hand through each contraction. She helped make my unmedicated birth possible.
I couldn't imagine giving birth without Melissa. We both appreciated her so much & would recommend her to anyone."
Courtney & Pete
"During the last few weeks of pregnancy she was on call and she was always available. She was the best listener. I am forever grateful for that.
Once I was in labor she never left my side, she gave me encouragement and reassurance. During labor she assisted me with pressure points to help alleviate pain. It was a lifesaver! She knew exactly what to say. This helped me a great deal, especially during the transition phase. Once my daughter was born she provided me with breast-feeding positioning. In fact, since she showed me the football hold while breast-feeding, it's been my favorite, most comfortable position for me and my baby.
If you’re looking for a kind, present, generous, highly knowledgeable Doula, then Melissa is for you.
Arielle
From our very first digital meeting I could tell that Melissa was the kind of person who was truly holistic in their approach, trusting both scientific evidence as well as sacred wisdom passed down through the ages.