“As the partner and first-time father, I think the best decision we made was to include Maria as our Doula in our birth plan. I never felt overwhelmed because I knew we always had Maria there to help shepherd us if we needed it. She was incredibly sensitive in giving us advice or just stepping back. She has a great intuition on when and what to suggest in the moment but also gave us space as well. This was important in retrospect, especially as dynamics can constantly shift between new midwives, being moved to new rooms and new Dr’s appearing and giving different information / suggestions. She was our constant while many other things changed, and her presence provided reassurance, so we felt that we weren’t getting lost or overwhelmed within the process. As a partner my role was purely to support my wife and having Maria there meant I could be completely present to support my partner and her needs. Being our first time, it was invaluable having someone, who had much more experience, with us through the whole labour. Someone who could advocate for us, if we needed it, when we were our most tired, or even just allow me to sleep without worrying that there wouldn’t be support for my partner. It takes a really special person to be able to go on this journey with a couple. Someone who is prepared for whatever may arise and be a constant calm presence, while providing support during the most delicate time of our lives. I truly appreciate the care in which Maria approaches her role as a Doula and I highly recommend her.”