Birth Story: Anne Berkeley

I first met Jill and Shoshannah when I was nearing the end of my second trimester. Feeling disillusioned by modern medicine and always having dreamed of a home water birth, I was immediately comforted by my first interaction with these two incredible women. Throughout all our prenatal appointments, they took such dedicated time and care with me; I felt deeply heard and cared for.

However, my labor journey took unexpected turns. None of my plans—second, third, or even fourth—could be followed. What followed was a four-day battle against the need for a cesarean section. Despite starting beautifully at home, it soon became clear to both midwives that I wasn't progressing for some unknown reason. I agreed to transfer to the hospital for some rest, hoping it would help move things along. Unfortunately, it didn't.

Throughout it all, I felt completely supported and loved by Jill and Shoshannah. They taught me to "be a noodle," to surrender to the pains of natural labor and later to those intensified by pitocin. As my pain increased and the reasons for my prolonged labor remained a mystery, I never felt scared or alone. Their constant presence and reassurance were my pillars of strength.

From trying every spinning babies move in the book to providing hands-on support through every painful contraction, they showed unwavering empathy, grace, and honesty. Together, they helped me to make the difficult decision to proceed with a c-section. While shifting from a planned home birth to surgery wasn't anyone's dream scenario, having Jill and Shoshannah by my side made all the difference.

Their support didn't end with delivery; they continued to be there for me throughout my postpartum journey. Their care during those critical moments after birth is something I will always cherish for the rest of my life.