Supporting Mothers and Mothers-to-be
Jessica's Testimonial
We couldn't have made it through those 36 long hours without you, Connie! Thank you for your patience, openness, and support! I still can't believe you didn't go home for a break. We are in awe of and grateful for your committment to a safe birth for us!
Posted to Facebook Page 5-26-2015
Jessica's Testimonial:
Our experience with Connie is one we will never forget! We met with Connie and instantly liked her. She was professional but personable; gentle but fierce. Near the end of my pregnancy, I was thrown a major curve ball: blood clots were discovered in my leg that deemed me a "high risk" patient. My original plans for a natural birth with a Midwife at a local birthing center were out the window. My heart was crushed.
Connie's support through this was clutch for me, as she instilled the confidence I needed to overcome this hurdle. She reminded me that, with her help and a little creativity, I could still meet my goals. Not only did she assist me in recreating something similar to my original vision, she also put in her own time and devotion to ensuring I was going to be safe: she came to visit me in the hospital, researched helpful information related to my condition, and attended an appointment with me so she could ask questions that helped me design a new vision for my birth (that met the OB's requirements and still allowed me to follow a more natural path). When I reluctantly found out I would need to be induced, for example, she asked if I could use more natural methods (a foley bulb) to assist in my induction instead of medicinal means (Cervidil).
On the day of my induction, Connie was by my side for nearly 24 hours to help speed things up! Her own daughter was close to giving birth, but Connie made her attendance a priority for me. While in labor, she supported my use of Hypnobirthing methods and also brought her own ideas for pain relief to the mix via the Robozo and peanut ball. Despite the fact that I had to be on fetal monitoring, Connie advocated for me to be able to walk around. When one nurse stalled my progress due to "protocol," Connie successfully worked with the staff to avoid future use of the unnecessary practice. Her help and warm presence allowed us to avoid cesarean and safely and lovingly welcome our sweet boy into the world!
Jessica
Posted on DoulaMatch.net 8/26/2015
Brian and I couldn't have done it without you. Thanks for all yor support! XO
Posted to Facebook Page 5-26-2015
Danielle's Testimonial:
Note: The following is why I'm a doula, and why I love my job so much! This was just posted to DoulaMatch by Danielle. What a joy it was to help this couple, and so satisfying ... Here's Danielle!
My first birth resulted in an unexpected c section. I had a doula and she was very helpful to me and my husband. After meeting with Connie for this second pregnancy when my previous doula was unavailable, my husband and I quickly realized that she would be a good fit for us. I had a hard time coming to terms with the way my first birth turned out and I was really hoping that I would be able to have a VBAC* this time.
Our two prenatal visits with Connie were wonderful; she was so knowledgeable about the birth process and had lots of physical and mental exercises to help us prepare for a VBAC that really helped alleviate my fears and nervousness. She also had a very kind and loving "nana" vibe to her. She also kept in touch regularly by text. I actually felt very motivated and excited for this birth.
When "labor day" finally came, Connie met us at the hospital. She was by our side the whole 16 hours of the longest day/night of my life. There were a few times when I felt like I couldn't take it anymore, but she helped me keep my focus. I was able to have the VBAC I wanted, with no meds to boot! I thought I was satisfied with my first doula, but after working with Connie, I know now what doulas can and should be, and what they should offer.
Words cannot express how grateful I am to Connie for what she helped me to accomplish.
Danielle
*VBAC - Vaginal Birth After Cesarean Section
Posted on DoulaMatch.net 6/3/2015
It's OK Lucas, Daddy's got you!
Irina's Testimonial:
I do not believe enough words exist to describe how amazing Connie was during my labor. Caring and attentive, gentle yet firm, Connie supported me throughout one of the most difficult things that I have ever accomplished. When I thought I could no longer go on, Connie encouraged and reminded me of what was awaiting at the finish line. She not only assisted me through the obvious physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy and labor, she also stepped in to be my voice when I could not muster a word- e.g. telling family members that trying to have a conversation with me during contractions is not the best time! And I loved her for that.
Connie's years of experience in the medical field along with her personal experience of being a mother make for the perfect combination. She sensed when and where I needed her most and would not skip a beat to get there. Not only was Connie a tremendous pillar for me, she also assisted my partner and family throughout the entire process- answering their questions and giving them updates. Because we all know that sometimes family can be a handful!
If you are looking for a doula who will inspire, support, and encourage you through such a beautiful yet uncharted and exhausting life event, Connie is the way to go!"
Posted to DoulaMatch.net on 11/10/2015
As your doula, I'll stay by your side, no matter how you end up birthing your baby!
Kati & Justin with Anderson greeted with love and prayer!
Everyone's Happy Now!
Welcome my son!
Mai's Testimonial:
Connie was amazing, I am so happy she was with us in the birth. Her presence and experience really helped me and my husband, she said exactly what I needed to hear, and made sure I am relaxed, assured and motivated to go through with my natural birth. Her response rate is amazing and her support was very helpful throughout my tough pregnancy and blissful birth. I did not have my mom or any family around me where I lived; Connie felt like having a very cool and knowledgable mom with me at birth.
I remember how she felt things I did not say. At one point during contractions while the nurse and I were talking, and then I had a tough contraction and Connie whispered in my ears " you don't have to be sociable now, focus on the contraction" , which helped me focus better and it was all the guidance I needed to hear at that point. She helped me get around while in labor, she did some her pressure points tricks to help me relax or get over the nausea in transition. When I wanted to use the birthing bar, her rebozo was ready! she is the best! I am so happy I chose her for my natural birth and highly recommend her. She is great and so easy to talk to before, during and after birth, she's all the support I needed!
Testimonial posted on Doula Nana Facebook & Doula Match 7/27/2016
Worth the wait!
We love you Baby Girl!
Megans's Testimonial on Doula Nana:
Connie was wonderful to work with. She helped me have the natural birth I desired and she worked well with my husband and I to bring a sense of calm to our labor. She has great tricks up her sleeve to help you remain calm and focused. I would highly recommend her.
Testimonial posted on Facebook Doula Nana 6/10/2016
You were in such a hurry to meet your mommy & daddy!
Eriana's Testimonial:
Connie is the best doula even when things happen so quickly. She's knows exactly what to do.
Testimonial posted on Facebook Doula Nana 5/24/2016
What a happy surprise you were, Baby!
Jenna's Testimonial:
Connie was wonderful and knew exactly what I needed during my quick labor. Although she came in as my back up and I never met her before, I felt immediately relaxed the minute she started talking with me. Her support made it possible for me to have the exact birth I wanted!
Testimonial posted on Facebook Doula Nana 6/04/2016
Into the arms of your loving parents!
Catherine's Testimonial
Connie was absolutely amazing as our doula. Her approach is thorough: she is so well researched and offered us so many interesting books and articles and anecdotes on labor support. She is also deeply caring and relentlessly positive. She made herself extremely available to us-- always responding quickly to my random texts, sending me cheerleading messages in the weeks leading up, and especially on the night I went into labor she was at my side in a heartbeat with loving hands and a gentle demeanor. We also really appreciated her medical expertise-- with 29+ years experience in nursing and in medicine, she knew all the ins and outs of the hospital experience and was a seamless team member in our L&D room. Literally all of our nurses and midwives commented that we "had the BEST doula" and that they loved working with her. I couldn't possibly recommend Connie more as a doula-- compassionate, intelligent, present, soulful, prompt and extremely reliable. Absolutely everything we could have asked for!!
Posted 8/5/2016 on DoulaMatch.net
What a beautiful birth ... Welcome Lydia!
Megan's Testimonial
If you are reading this you have most likely already decided you want a doula at your birth and are trying to choose the right one for you. I know I did! All of the women you are reading about are kind, caring and supportive and Connie embodies all of these traits and more. Below are just some of the reasons why we chose her:
Connie is an RN and has many years of hospital experience.
I had a successful VBAC and that is in no small part to Connie's calm and knowledgeable demeanor in a hospital setting. My husband is a PhD biochemist and did not understand why I wanted another person (I believe the term "witch doctor" may have been used by him at one point) in the room with us until he met Connie. We both immediately felt at ease because of her extensive medical knowledge and background as an RN. My husband said after the birth that "everyone should have a Connie" and could not imagine going through the birth process without her and I completely agree!
Connie is a wonderful intermediary between you and the doctors.
Connie excels at "reading the room" of doctors and nurses in a unique way because she was/is one of them. You have probably heard that medical professionals make the worst patients which is often because they understand too much of what is going on around them. Connie understands the policies and procedures that the medical team is trying to uphold and can tell you what is likely going to happen next. She can also tell if things are progressing normally or begin to prepare you in the unlikely event that something is going wrong. This was invaluable to us during my 13+ hour labor!
Connie will stay with you the entire time and supports you in the way that you need.
Connie walked the hospital halls with me for over 10 hours, showed me exercises to help labor along and talked with me the whole time. This is what I needed to make it through; my labor flew by and was as pleasant an experience as possible for me. You may need another form of support but I have no doubt Connie will be there for you and never give up on you! She also was available via text at any point during my pregnancy which put both my husband and my minds' at ease. She provided me with exercises to be active during pregnancy as well as to help progress labor. We also felt confident through talking with her that we were not going to the hospital too soon (a fear of mine) so that I would not end up having an unnecessary C Section. Connie will help support your decision about pain medication, procedures, etc.
My thoughts on pain medication were that I would like to go natural but I was open to the idea of an epidural if needed (my hospital does not offer laughing gas or any other local). After being awake for over 48 hours and in active labor for 13 hours, I asked for one and I wasn't worried that Connie would judge me, which turned out to be the right decision for me at the time. Also I was very certain that I did not want Pitocin and Connie helped communicate that effectively to the doctor for me. I was not given any Pitocin during labor, which I believe was invaluable for me to have a successful VBAC.
And finally... My dog liked her!
Obviously this may not be of importance to you, even so let me explain. My dog is a rescue Springer Spaniel/Lab mix that does not realize she has been bred out of the two friendliest breeds on the planet. She hates everyone outside our immediate family and growls at everyone she meets. She let Connie pet her within 15 minutes of meeting her! She never lets anyone pet her, especially at the first meeting! It may be important to you that Connie is very comfortable with cats and dogs (she also has a rescue dog) and obviously children. She immediately showed she was at ease with our pets and toddler.
In closing, I understand how tedious it can be to read through all of the recommendations and accreditations to find the right support system for one of the most important times in your life. As a VBAC mom (my first was planned C Section due to a breech baby), I had never been in labor before and wanted to do everything in my power to have the best possible birth experience and avoid another C Section. There is no doubt in my mind that I had such a wonderful experience because I had Connie by my side. Best of luck with your doula decision and best wishes on a healthy, happy pregnancy!
Emailed to the Doula Nana 11/17/2016
Overwhelming Love at First Glance!
Janice's Testimonial
Working with Connie was a great experience. She really helped guide my husband and me through an intense labor! I don't think we could have gotten through it as well as we did without her. I would highly recommend her to anyone!
Posted on DoulaMatch.com 11/20/2016
The Happy Family! ... and ... Skin to skin with Daddy!
Hey Daddy can we watch the Indians games together?
Jennifer's Testimonial
Connie provided much needed support during our labor. We felt well taken care of and supported in her care. We would not want to have a baby without her!
Posted on DoulaMatch.com 11/23/2016
We are Family!
Rachael's Testimonial
I can't say enough wonderful things about Connie. I'm so sorry I didn't find her for the births of my first two daughters; she was exactly what I was looking for and hoping for! I always wanted to have a completely natural childbirth experience, and I knew for my third child I really wanted this to happen. A friend recommended Connie to us, and after I met her I knew we would work very well together. She is probably the most genuine and kind person I've ever met. She is also very knowledgeable and practical, which I loved. She is the perfect doula because she has such a variety of backgrounds and experiences: mother, grandmother, teacher, RN, and doula! During my labor and delivery, she was immensely helpful and calming. She also had a lot of options to support me when other methods we had tried weren't working. She was positive and motivating, and always made me feel like I was strong and capable. I would without hesitation recommend Connie to anyone and everyone; she really is the best!
Posted on DoulaMatch.com 1/28/2017
All smiles for Rory!
IT'S A BOY!
Katie's Testimonial
Connie was amazing! My second delivery was so much better than my first because Connie was there. She helped prepare me at every step, even though I thought I knew what to expect with it being my second child. She was always there for me when I had questions or wanted to bounce ideas off someone. Both my husband and I agree, had Connie not been with us in the delivery room I would have had a much longer and frustrating delivery. Connie offered suggestions to keep me moving, which was my goal, she helped me find strength I didn't know I had and kept me focused. If we ever have more kids Connie will certainly be there; I wouldn’t deliver another baby without her now that I have experienced with her. Connie is an amazing doula!
Posted on DoulaMatch.com 6/22/2017
Sweet baby girl how we love you!
Jessica's Testimonial
Connie was amazing to work with! My husband and I really benefitted from the prenatal visits because it gave us a non-clinical atmosphere to talk about hopes, fears, etc. surrounding the labor process. We felt like Connie became a friend, which made us feel relaxed. I trusted her completely by the time the big day came. I'd not hesitate to recommend her services!
Posted on DoulaMatch.com 9/5/2017
So long awaited, so loved!!
Sarah's Testimonial
Connie continually exceeded all of my expectations. She provided strong support and is committed to the whole birth process. She was available for any of my questions throughout my pregnancy and didn't bat an eye when my active labor exceeded 24 hours, with her cheerful sense of humor intact. She doubled as a source of strength for my husband as well. We just love her and are eternally grateful we found her!
Posted on DoulaNana Facebook Page 6/21/2017
Brand new daddy melting into a puddle seeing his newborn son!
Such a gentle, peaceful birth!!
Allison's Testimonial
Connie helped facilitate the most beautiful birth experience for us. Connie is the perfect blend of compassion, smarts, and assertiveness- just the kind of person you want to usher you through the exciting (but sometimes scary) experience of birth. The prenatal visits were so helpful in teaching us what to expect, putting our minds at ease, and making us feel confident in our goal to have an unmedicated birth. Having her available to text with questions was also so helpful, especially as we go closer to my due date; her advice helped us get my labor going naturally when I was past my due date and my OB/GYN was talking about a hospital induction. She also was such a great resource and advocate once we arrived to the hospital, working well with the hospital team to get permission for me to be able to walk around with a portable monitor and think outside the box to keep me comfortable and my labor progressing. She was also very supportive when we needed to deviate from our original birth plan and accept additional medical intervention (IV, and pitocin). Throughout my labor I felt like Connie was like a mother figure to me and my husband- we felt so much love from her and felt totally comfortable having her be part of such a special and intimate experience. She seemed to always know exactly what I needed to be comfortable and stay in a calm mindset. With her amazing accupressure skills, I was able to achieve my goal of a pain-med free birth! I really don't think I could have done it without her. We are so grateful for Connie and will be calling her for our second child!
Posted on Doula Match 10/16/2017
Bebe Deux was a quick study!
Thank you, God, for this precious gift!
A well deserved rest and my baby is here!
Our gift from God!
Jarriel's Testimonial
Connie was my doula for the birth of my first baby. She was absolutely phenomenal in her knowledge, patience, and flexibility. She gave me all the tools I needed to have the kind of birth I desired. I'm so grateful to her and highly recommend her, and her services!
Posted on DoulaMatch.com 1/3/2018
Our Hanukkah Surprise! What a bright light you are!
A sweet and gentle birth!
This kiss made all the hard work worthwhile!
Yes, that's Daddy!
Rejoicing about her remarkable birth!
The labor was long, but joy came in the morning!
What a wonderful suprise you were!
I'm so glad you are a child of mine!
Chana's Testimonial
My birth with Connie was almost literally a "walk in the park"! Her presence was so calming, yet upbeat. We were just talking like friends between contractions, she helped keep me focused & positive while taking my lead. Connie was intuitively able to offer the right kind of support at the right times. Encouraging yet not pushing any specific agenda. She even came to my house to show me exercises before active labor started, because my labor had stalled. I can't wait to have Connie over at another birth!
Posted on DoulaMatch.com 8/26/2020
My beautiful baby boy!
So much love for such a tiny girl!
2nd time with Doula Nana see Crystal, Mark & Baby Aaron on this page!
Shabbat Baby, blessed child!
So long awaited & now so loved!
2nd time with Doula Nana see Cat, Brian & Baby Margot back up this page!
A quick yet sweet birth!
2nd time with Doula Nana see Jenna, Matthew & Baby Mason above!
Perfect: My three sons!
See this happy couple with Baby Mason 3 years ago above!
Jenna's Testimonial
Connie and I met unexpectedly during the birth of my second son as my "back up" doula. Little did I know but she was exactly who I needed for my labor. My experience with Connie went so well that I wanted her to be there for the birth of my third. Through my labor Connie was there to support me, answer my questions, and guide me on my birth path. I am so thankful for her support!
Posted on DoulaMatch.com 6/22/2019
First look, eye to eye, heart to heart!
What a journey... Now you're here!
Cari's Thanks
There aren't enough words to express our gratitude to you for being our doula and helping us usher Julian into the world. We are so happy with our birth experience and you played a big part in that. Thank you for your support during such a crazy and unexpected journey with Chris's surgery and balancing my anxiety. We will definitely recommend you to everyone we know! Julian is so lucky to have you in his life and as part of his story.
From Cari's Thank You Note 7/6/2019
Loved & cherished from the first moment!
Out of our longing, you came!
Prayers & Love brought you to us!
Oh, baby boy, how welcome you are!
Angie's Thank you note
It takes the power of love!
Sweet reward for Daddy and Mommy!
2nd baby boy with Doula Nana!
See Alketa, Mark and Baby Oliver above (3 yrs ago)
What a bright light, born at night!
Cassie's Spontaneous Testimonial On Facebook 6/4/2020
If you are expecting now or in the future I can not say enough about Connie Machan! Her doula services as Doula Nana are incredible! Her support comes in all forms from friendship, encouragement, education, and all around care!
Everyone deserves to have the support that she provides through one of the most important and memorable experiences of your life. You can genuinely tell that she is in this business because she loves it, and who wouldn't!
Birthing babies is magical!
Laboring at home brought us this sweet reward!
2nd baby boy with Doula Nana!
See Allison, Arik and Baby Sage above (3 yrs ago)
Oh, Baby, you came to us so gently at home!
2nd baby boy with Doula Nana!
See Asa, Chris and Baby Ceres above (2 years ago)
You arrived at just the right time: Baby Time!
A beautiful birth! Joy comes in the morning!
Marisa's Testimonial:
I am going to try my best to adequately articulate the immense gratitude and fondness I have for Connie and our experience with her as our doula. She was present at the birth of both of my children. With my first born, Connie was actually the backup doula for the woman I had originally planned to have present. I had a rough delivery and out of the entire situation I remember Connie being such a calm presence! When I found out I was pregnant with my second child I knew I wanted to have her by my side. With all the COVID restrictions, we did not know if this would even be possible. During my pregnancy, Connie was always available to chat after Drs appointments, reassure me about my anxieties or just be a voice to talk too when I was nervous and scared. A few weeks before my delivery, hospital restrictions were lifted and we received the best news. Connie could be in the room! The first few hours of my labor I was nervous and anxious as it was only myself and my husband. As soon as Connie arrived into the delivery room, the mood shifted as my husband and I both relaxed immediately! She walked in at 2am in a wonderful mood and excited to help welcome our baby! I had the most relaxing, calm and healing second birth. When my daughter was born, my husband asked Connie to do the honors of cutting the umbilical cord. Every year as we celebrate my son and daughter on their respected birthdays, I will always remember their birth and the amazing woman I had by my side welcoming them into this world. She will always hold the most special place in our hearts!
Posted on DoulaMatch.com 1/21/2021
Second birth with Doula Nana. Not pictured Tony, Marisa and Baby Luca 2yrs ago
What a big, healthy blessing!
Robin's Testimonial (thank you card)
Sweet girl, you arrived at the perfect time!
Surprise 4th of July baby born in the car!
Doula Nana out of town. Super birth for my backup thanks to Britt (1st baby arrived at hospital at 7cm)!
Surprise 4th of July baby born in the car!
Perfect Safe Landing! Soaking in that first baby snuggle!
(Second time with Doula Nana. See above 2 yrs ago with Baby Rosemarie.)
Patti's Thank You Note:
Gifted to Connie 09/21/2021
Long awaited, forever cherished
I love these two already!
Long awaited, cherished beyond words!
(2nd VBAC with Doula Nana. See baby Lydia above)
Covid meant virtual support but so much love for this little family.
(Second time with Doula Nana. Big brother Beckham was born two years ago.)
Robin's Thank You Note:
What a crazy fast and wonderful birth!
(Second time with Doula Nana. See them above with Lewis)
Virginia's Thank You Note:
What a wild ride it was to meet you!
This is homebirth! VBA2C* was amazing!
*(Vaginal birth after two C-sections!)
Oh, Baby, you chose such a loving family!
"Here Comes the Sun" played as you took your first breath!
Though she be tiny, she is fierce!
God's precious gift to our world!
The Doula Nana ...
