Islay Alexander, born 24 September 2009, 8.38pm

"Rachel, thank you soooo much for everything!  We are eternally grateful for the fabulous support, advice, assistance and knowledge you have given us and for your patience and wisdom as we travelled on our journey bringing Islay into the world.  We greatly enjoyed your being there with us to welcome him!  Love, hugs and gratitude, Victoria, John, Cello and Islay".

Victoria, you laboured beautifully.  So committed and focussed on achieving the birth you set out to achieve.  And it was such an honour to help 'catch' Islay and untangle him from his cord before passing him to you, a moment I will never forget!  That slippery fresh warm baby leaving vernix on my hands and arms, and seeing you reach down to scoop him against you with a sigh of absolute relief and happiness...just wonderful.  Despite the drawn out and emotional start to labour, you made your natural powerful birth happen - and it was amazing to behold!  I will plant my beautiful Wollemi and watch it grow with Islay, thank you. xxx Rachel  (Note: I don't usually help catch babies, and have no training to do so, I just happened to be in the right place at the right time with a spare pair of hands.  Lucky me!)

Micah, born 12 April 2009, 6.04pm

"Dear Rachel, thankyou for all your support, guidance and care.  Without all the confidence and continual reassurance I don't think I could have put my mind in the right place to have a natural birth.  You're a very special person to be able to offer such a calm, knowledgeable reassuring voice.  After suffering post traumatic stress disorder after my difficult first birth, I was terribly scared of it all happening again with the birth of Micah.  I believe I was so ready mentally to give birth and felt so safe because of your care.  Without it I don't think I would have had such a succesful, memorable birth.  Thankyou, Karrena, Adam, Milan and Micah".

Karrena was so determined and powerful - quickly and naturally birthing Micah kneeling on the floor.  Karrena, your pelvis and body are made for birthing those posterior babies!  No need for Optimal Fetal Positioning - posterior is the 'right way' for you! ;-)  You are a very strong woman, and a protective and wonderful mother.  Thank you for inviting me into your journey.  xxx Rachel

Charlotte Blaire, born 18 February 2009, 11.35pm

"As soon as I hung up the phone from my Doctor giving me the results that we were expecting our second child, I immediately called Rachel to ask her to be our Doula again. I yearned for a water birth after not having the opportunity during my birth with Lachlan because the midwife on duty at the hospital wasn't confident with one. Without delay, she said "Call the Birth Centre as soon as you get off the phone from me." Rachel knew what I wanted even before I did! What a talent!

During the months that Alan and I were trying to conceive a sibling for Lachlan, he said to me, "I assume we'll be having Rachel with us again." Not so much a question but a statement. And why wouldn't we? Rachel is the most wonderful, understanding, unobtrusive and perceptive 'human birth plan' you could ever have. 

Once again, throughout our pregnancy, Rachel provided my husband and I with the information and friendship I hungered for and the physical and emotional support during the birth. Even though the labour again was extremely quick and very intense, I honestly can say that I enjoyed every moment of it.  It's so wonderful and comforting, when you are hanging your head over the side of the birth pool and can only see feet, to have Rachel there supporting you and your husband in a nurturing and loving manner.  Charlotte was born just like Lachlan, without medical intervention, drugs or any type of 'procedure'. This time though, I got my water baby!!!

Rachel again confirmed for me that I could birth my baby the exact way I wanted to, and I did.  You cannot in a million lifetimes, put a price on that!  Thank you Rachel.  For everything.  You've touched my family's life in a way I know that no one else ever could or will.  For this, I will be eternally grateful.  - Hope, Alan, Lachlan and Charlotte".

It was such an honour to be asked to support you again, Hope.  You are a birthing goddess!  You know what you have to do, and you do it so quickly and with such focus.  A beautiful sight to behold.  xxxx Rachel

Callum Robert, born 24 August 2008, 7.54am

"People mocked me when I said 'I would like a natural and harmonious birth'. I had endless comments such as 'There isn’t anything harmonious about birth' and the usual 'Are you kidding me? My advice is to go straight for the epidural' – as if I asked for their advice!  Well to them I say “phfff”...

To you, I say...it is possible.  You can have an amazing birth experience, regardless of which labour path you choose.  Rachel, as our doula, helped me to see this.

To Rachel, I say...I am eternally grateful for helping me have the amazing birth experience I had dreamed of.  I was fortunate enough to have a fantastic birth.  Sure, it was definitely tough – and not particularly short – but in the midst of the pain, I was able to dig deep and find something in me that I didn’t know I had, that maybe I wouldn’t have had if we didn’t have fantastic support around us.

Going into the pregnancy I was scared and anxious, and clueless (first bub).  But Rachel’s constant support and encouragement, endless amounts of education and reading materials, and ability to put things into perspective for me was truly priceless. At the end of the nine months I was more aware of myself and what my body was built to do. I had a confidence and I was excited about the prospect of what I was about to go through.

To the partners, I say...my husband was definitely wary of a third person at first, a stranger at that, being a part of such an intimate experience.  I can assure you that by the time the nine months is up Rachel won’t be a stranger and you will be so grateful for her presence. 

Rachel has a way of being present without being overbearing, and of providing an element of something that no one else can provide – not the midwives, the doctors, or even family.  Following the birth, Rachel’s ongoing support and encouragement was such a blessing.  Her regular boosts of confidence helped me through the early days and helped me to see that ‘mum knows best’ and that ‘everything will be okay’.  Rachel you truly are a gem, and helping women achieve a harmonious birth seems to be your calling. Thank you, and we can’t wait till the day when we can tell you we’re expecting again. - Kierra, Iain and Baby Callum"

It was so exciting to see you reach for those inner resources, Kierra, and blossom into the strong and instinctive birthing woman you are, so calm and focussed.  You blessed Callum with a beautiful gentle birth. xx Rachel

Jarrah Kai, born 22 July 2008, 7.43pm

"Dear Rachel,

What an amazing, powerful and joyful experience my pregnancy, natural birth and being a new parent has been!  Having you a close part of this has very much enriched my knowledge, confidence and trust in myself.  During my birth I had no fear and felt that all would be perfect, and it was.  Your compassionate, present and enthusiastic support throughout this time was invaluable!  Your book and DVD library was great to boot!

Thankyou Rachel, you are such a wonderful woman who I admire greatly, especially in your passion to support mothers and their babies to birth blissfully :-)

- Much love, Belinda, Alistair and Jarrah"

I am so proud of you guys.  xxx Rachel

Jake, born 10 May 2008, 2:29am

"Rachel was a great support to me as a single mum during the prolonged birth of my son Jake over 3 long days. I appreciated Rachel’s knowledge, understanding, support and comfort during my difficult labour and also for visiting me in hospital while I was recovering and, later, providing guidance with breastfeeding when I went home.

I was hoping for a natural birth without the use of drugs and other intervention, but when my baby was 10 days overdue I began to worry. With advice from hospital staff I agreed to start the induction process and, after 3 days in hospital with little progress, ended up having drugs and, ultimately, a caesarean birth. Rachel was with me all through these difficulties and frustrations. While things didn’t end up as originally hoped and planned, the safe arrival of Jake into the world was very exciting. In the future I hope to have a VBAC (vaginal birth after caesarean) and would like to try a different approach after learning from Jake’s birth.

Rachel provided an excellent personalised doula service before, during and after Jake’s birth and the resource material she loaned me was both informative and enjoyable reading.  Thanks again Rachel, x Chantal Semmens"

Valdas John, born 9 January 2008, approx 3.30am, unassisted birth at home

"Although the births of my two older boys had been reasonably straightforward I was nervous about the upcoming birth of our most recent creation. The thought of having to surrender myself to 'the system' once again was daunting. I needed a sounding board and an advocate and Rachel seemed the perfect choice. After our first meeting with Rachel, we were sure she was the doula for us. She was around my age, well experienced and highly knowledgeable about the physical, emotional and spiritual aspects of pregnancy and birth.

I met with her regularly throughout my pregnancy and she provided me with much needed support and encouragement. I was a nervous wreck at the beginning of the pregnancy but after many discussions with Rachel, and watching DVDs and reading books from her library I began to relax. By the time the big day finally came I was so calm and confident about my ability to give birth that the baby slipped out quickly, easily and virtually painlessly, very unlike my previous births.

I believe all the preparation I did with Rachel throughout my pregnancy played a large role in the easy (yes easy!) birth I experienced this time. We are so glad we hired her. She was fantastic and I wholeheartedly recommend her services to any family wishing for a fabulous birth. *mwah* Rachel, you are fab! Thanks again, love from Mary xx"

Finn Sebastian, born 7 Sep 2007, approx 4.55pm at home

"Dear Rachel, thanks for being the best doula ever! We found your support during the labour invaluable and we couldn't imagine going through another labour without extra support. We really appreciated that you were able to support Evan and make sure he was looked after as well as myself. Your warmth and friendship helped to make Finn's birth a wonderful experience for all of us. We hope you'll be with us for the birth of our next child! - Love Grace, Evan and Finn"

Grace and Evan are both wonderful dancers, and together they danced their baby into the world.  I will never be able to listen to the soundtrack to Monsoon Wedding without thinking of Finn's birth!  It was such a warm and instinctive labour, and a beautiful peaceful waterbirth.  One of my favorite memories is sitting around the kitchen table, new baby at his mother's breast, us all chatting, laughing and reliving the birth, eating Evan's yummy homemade nachos to the sound of heavy rain outside.

Addison Rae, born 3 Sep 2007, 9.00pm

A surprise pregnancy after just moving to Canberra began a little daunting for us, and I was nervous about the pregnancy and a little frightened about labour. But after meeting with you and getting to know you throughout the pregnancy, Ben and I were able to approach the birth feeling confident, empowered and excited. And completely without fear. You taught us that birth is a natural, positive experience and I was totally comfortable that my uterus and I could do it! And we did!

Throughout the birth you were absolutely untiring support for both myself and Ben, and I felt completely safe and confident throughout the whole process.  You have an obvious rapport with the midwives and staff at Queanbeyan Hospital and always ensured that our need for calm, quiet and privacy was respected.  Despite a long and tiring labour, your words of encouragement, lovely massage, beautiful photography and gentle presence ensured our birth was a wonderful experience.  And we also got to have lots of laughs!

The birth was just the beginning, and your post-birth support has also been fantastic.  You are always available and willing to provide wonderful encouragement, information and suggestions on breastfeeding, sleep and settling, and teaching me to trust my instincts.  When I think things are getting difficult, that gives me the strength to believe in myself as a mother.  We are honoured and truly thrilled that you could be such a special part of our lives. - All our love Kim, Ben and Addison Rae"

Kaitlyn Jade, born 15 Aug 2007, 10.20am

"Thank you so much for providing such special support throughout our pregnancy and birth.  Our birth experience was absolutely magical, and we feel so lucky to have shared it with you." - with love, Sasha, Nic and Kaitlyn

Willow Elise, born 31 May 2007, 12.42pm at home

"We want to thank you ever so much for your support before, during and after the birth of Willow.  Also, we will always cherish the gorgeous photos of our birth and love that we have that record to share with Willow when she is older.  You really have been a wonderful introduction to Canberra.  So caring, gentle and true.  Thank you for coming into our lives at such a special time." - Rachelle, Joe, Madeleine and Willow

A gentle and beautiful waterbirth! Rachelle calmly reached down into the pool to where Willow was gazing up through the water at her and brought her straight up into her arms. So wonderful when the first hands to touch a new baby are her parent's.  No need for others to fiddle or fuss or 'take over'.  Exactly the way nature intended.

Emily Clare, born 12 Mar 2007, 8.24pm

“In our quest for a birth that was as calm and natural as possible, we decided to look into having a doula to support us. We made several enquiries, but after meeting Rae for the first time we both knew that she would be ‘the one’.

Rae worked patiently through our many questions and concerns leading up to the birth, and we both had no doubt that it would be a fantastic experience, marked by beautiful and unforgettable moments. And indeed it was!  Rae worked with all three of us as a family and encouraged teamwork. Nothing was ever too much trouble, and she was off to fetch toast and drinks in between providing wonderful massage and lovely support with her soft spoken words. Always understanding and never patronising or forceful, Rae was such a blessing to have at the birth of our first baby, Emily Clare.

She helped provide the loving and calm atmosphere that we feel is important to bring a baby into. Even now, Emily is such a calm and contented little bub, and we know Rae had something to do with this!  Also worth mentioning is that there was such a strong feeling of respect and gratitude towards Rae from the midwives and obstetrician who attended our birth. She worked so well with the hospital staff, which was an absolute positive, and proof that there is definitely a place for a support person such as Rae at every birth!

Rae, we want to thank you so much for all your invaluable support; you taught us so much about the wonder of pregnancy and birth and the beautiful miracle of new life! If we are still in Canberra when our next bub is being planned, expect a phone call!" - with love, Dean and Jen Staniforth

Jen breathed and relaxed her way right throughout labour, going deep inward and only seeming to add effort and energy right as Emily’s head was crowning - very controlled and calm. Jen had amazing stamina and focus over a long labour, and what struck me was how gentle and without fear it all was. It really goes to prove that women’s bodies and their babies are wise and perfect - even if it’s taking a while there is still no need to ‘rescue’ or ‘fix’...Such a beautiful, gentle waterbirth.

Jack, born 21 Feb 2007, 6.55am

We decided to get a doula for the birth of our second baby. The first time around we were lucky to get a good midwife but this time I wanted more than luck. Best decision we ever made! Through all our antenatal visits I knew that Rachel knew exactly what I wanted and what I didn't. When the time came, I happily went to 'labourland', knowing that Rachel was there for both my myself and my husband. It was very reassuring to know that this time we didn't need luck.

I was in labour for 8 hours and I did lots of pushing. Rachel was wonderful with encouraging me to try different positions and because I trusted her so much I just did it and was glad I didn't have to think about it! In the end it was one of her suggestions which 'un-stuck' Jack and he was born very quickly.

Our next will be a homebirth and Rachel is definitely on the invitation list, and maybe she will take some beautiful photos again too.

I love giving birth, I love the power and the wonder of it. It's great to share that with someone who understands that feeling. Thanks Rachel." - Louise Williamson, Jordy Appleby, Penny and Jack

Maya Stephanie, born 15 Jan 2007, 12.46pm

“The most important thing to me for our birth was that it be as calm as possible. I also liked the idea of having someone there for Shawn and I who had been through it all before and could express our wishes to staff during labour. Our experience was as good as I could have ever wished. Having your support before and during labour made me much more confident about staying home for as long as I did.

Once we were at the hospital it was fantastic to have your emotional and physical support for both Shawn and I. Overall everything went very well for all of us and Shawn has been singing the praises of doulas to everyone he meets of child-bearing age! Thanks again for everything” - Pip, Shawn and Maya

What a great birth! A slow, on again off again, pre-labour finally launched into established labour after some acupuncture, emotional support, food and sleep. Pip did a fantastic job of breathing into and flowing with the sensations, and using movement, water and positive sound to work with her body, and before long it was time to push Maya out into the world. I think Pip surprised herself with what she was capable of!

Greta Martine, born 14 Jan 2007, 4.58am

"Rachel made a real difference with the birth of our second child, Greta.  She gave us confidence in dealing with our obstetrician and other medical staff to ensure we got what we wanted.  She literally shared the burden during the labour - enabling me to get out of the birthing suite for short breaks, and she offered Catherine just the right words of encouragement at the final stage.  We've valued her support and friendship through the whole process.  And she took lovely pictures too!" - Jeremy Kruse

Lachlan Mackenzie, born 22 Dec 2006, 1.05am

”As a first-timer, I was extremely anxious about the labour experience even though I wanted a very natural birth. After meeting Rae, I was so empowered and positive that I knew my body could do it! Rae provided my husband and I with experienced information and friendship during and after the pregnancy, and physical and emotional support throughout labour. Rae was literally our ‘human birth plan’ as she knew exactly what I wanted and needed, and negotiated with the hospital staff during labour so my husband could focus solely on me. Our birthing experience was calm and relaxed yet very primal. Rae helped us achieve the exact birth experience we wanted for our son!” - Hope, Alan and Lachlan

I'm in awe of you Hope.  So in control, and so QUICK!  And Alan, you're a natural baby-catcher x Rachel

Narrah Raffaele, born 25 Nov 2006, 4.25pm

"I just wanted to let you know how awesome and amazing you are!  Having had my lots the conventional way and never doubting anything, I did raise my eyebrows at the thought of Georgia wishing to have a homebirth.  But knowing what she has taught me throughout my years, I knew it would be amazing.  I have never experienced anything like it ever - you were so cool, calm and collected, nothing was ever too much.  All our questions answered and not only the care and consideration you gave to Georgia but to all of us.  You are a beautiful and wonderful girl, and truly show what a dedicated person you are.  I would recommend this to anyone.  Once again, thank you for taking the loving care you did with Georgia and her beautiful new bub." - Margie (grandmother of Narrah, mother of Georgia)

A planned homebirth with an independent midwife, Narrah was eventually birthed in hospital after a long and difficult posterior labour at home over several days. Only the minimum of medical assistance was needed, resulting in a powerful and triumphant natural birth, and bub being received by Georgia’s own father, Richard. A truly wonderful moment, with not a dry eye to be seen!

Cara Belle, born 14 Jul 2006, 8.30am

"Rachel visited me several times during our pregnancy, in which time we got to know each other well, and Rachel was able to get a good idea of what I wanted/needed to make the birth I was trying to achieve (VBA2C) possible.  Rachel always made sure I knew she was there whenever I needed her advice or support, and provided a wealth of information to help me make informed decisions regarding my birth plan.  When I went into labour, Rachel came to our house to help with relaxation and different positions for comfort, which meant I was able to avoid going to hospital for a few hours more, which was part of my birth plan. When it was time to go to hospital, Rachel went with us and stayed with us continuously.  She offered both physical and emotional support, and reminded me of different techniques I could be using to assist in comfort/relaxation and the progression of my labour.  Though I laboured through the night, and it was an exhausting drug-free labour, I always felt Rachel’s presence in the moment 100%, offering support, options and understanding.  I would highly recommend Rachel’s services as both a professional and caring support person."