Add Your Testimonial
Tania Walsh
Allison is the most wonderful doula! Near the end of my pregnancy and through my labour, Allison had gone above and beyond our expectations. Her knowledge and professionalism had not gone unnoticed. The first time I spoke to Allison over the phone, she made all my worries and fears disappear. Even though this was our second child, there was no doubt that having a doula present was important to my husband and I. We instantly knew she was the right fit for us. She remembered every little detail, making sure My husband I were being looked after and helping me mentally prepare my journey through labour. Thank you Allison for everything you did. I could not have done it without you. You truly are the most amazing doula and wonderful person! Thank you a million times over
Allison is the most wonderful doula! Near the end of my pregnancy and through my labour, Allison had gone above and beyond our expectations. Her knowledge and professionalism had not gone unnoticed. The first time I spoke to Allison over the phone, she made all my worries and fears disappear. Even though this was our second child, there was no doubt that having a doula present was important to my husband and I. We instantly knew she was the right fit for us. She remembered every little detail, making sure My husband I were being looked after and helping me mentally prepare my journey through labour. Thank you Allison for everything you did. I could not have done it without you. You truly are the most amazing doula and wonderful person! Thank you a million times over
Ainur Seidalinova
Allison was the perfect choice to assist us in bringing our baby into this world. Her knowledge, experience, care and awareness really showed as her steadfast guidance became a touchstone for us on our journey between being pregnant to giving birth, and beyond. From preparing us to helping in a myriad of ways we couldn't have imagined and orchestrating what was needed with solid yet sensitive support... She was able to show up for us when it was needed and bridge the gap between where we were at and where we wanted to go. Allison was pivotal in helping us to ultimately achieve our home birth and we would not hesitate to recommend her or hire her again! Thanks SO Much Allison, you're the best!!! -Jordan and Ainur
Allison was the perfect choice to assist us in bringing our baby into this world. Her knowledge, experience, care and awareness really showed as her steadfast guidance became a touchstone for us on our journey between being pregnant to giving birth, and beyond. From preparing us to helping in a myriad of ways we couldn't have imagined and orchestrating what was needed with solid yet sensitive support... She was able to show up for us when it was needed and bridge the gap between where we were at and where we wanted to go. Allison was pivotal in helping us to ultimately achieve our home birth and we would not hesitate to recommend her or hire her again! Thanks SO Much Allison, you're the best!!! -Jordan and Ainur
Hilary
I will be forever grateful to Allison for the birth of my second baby. I was very excited to experience birth for no other reason than a woman's rite of passage. I wanted to have as much of a natural birth as possible, with no drugs. With my first baby, at my 39 week prenatal appointment I found out that my baby was breech. Which meant that the doctor scheduled me for a C-Section as soon as possible. I had no options to have a natural birth. I never went into labour, I was terrified to have a C-Section, and I felt that the experience I was looking forward to of 'having' a baby was somewhat stolen from me. With my second pregnancy, I decided to empower myself by hiring a doula. Right away Allison impressed me with her knowledge and experience, and willingness to understand what I truly wanted from my birth. My husband did not want to spend the money for a Doula and felt like his role as supporting husband was in jeopardy, but eventually went along with it only because I insisted. Hallelujah! Allison made my husband feel empowered by keeping him part of the process, alleviating his fears and supporting his needs in the process too. I can assure you that my husband is now singing a different tune about Doulas :) We discussed in great length all of my values, options and preferences. I felt empowered and informed. She helped set me up with a midwife, suggested reading Ina May's Guide to Childbirth and went above and beyond for me every step of the way. I truly felt supported and that even though my body was going through the pain, it felt as though I wasn't going through it alone. I had a successful VBAC, after 4 hours of pushing and not 'progressing' fast enough (according to the doctors) and facing another possible emergency C-Section. It was Allison's assuring smile, experience with successful births (just like mine), and unwavering confidence in me that gave me the power to keep pushing. No epidural, no drugs, all WOMAN. ...And Allison ;)
I will be forever grateful to Allison for the birth of my second baby. I was very excited to experience birth for no other reason than a woman's rite of passage. I wanted to have as much of a natural birth as possible, with no drugs. With my first baby, at my 39 week prenatal appointment I found out that my baby was breech. Which meant that the doctor scheduled me for a C-Section as soon as possible. I had no options to have a natural birth. I never went into labour, I was terrified to have a C-Section, and I felt that the experience I was looking forward to of 'having' a baby was somewhat stolen from me. With my second pregnancy, I decided to empower myself by hiring a doula. Right away Allison impressed me with her knowledge and experience, and willingness to understand what I truly wanted from my birth. My husband did not want to spend the money for a Doula and felt like his role as supporting husband was in jeopardy, but eventually went along with it only because I insisted. Hallelujah! Allison made my husband feel empowered by keeping him part of the process, alleviating his fears and supporting his needs in the process too. I can assure you that my husband is now singing a different tune about Doulas :) We discussed in great length all of my values, options and preferences. I felt empowered and informed. She helped set me up with a midwife, suggested reading Ina May's Guide to Childbirth and went above and beyond for me every step of the way. I truly felt supported and that even though my body was going through the pain, it felt as though I wasn't going through it alone. I had a successful VBAC, after 4 hours of pushing and not 'progressing' fast enough (according to the doctors) and facing another possible emergency C-Section. It was Allison's assuring smile, experience with successful births (just like mine), and unwavering confidence in me that gave me the power to keep pushing. No epidural, no drugs, all WOMAN. ...And Allison ;)
Maehan Mak
We were referred to Allison by a friend, we met her once and knew she was the perfect fit immediately. This was our first birth and we had no idea of what to expect through pregnancy and especially the labour/delivery process. Allison provided us with the support, education and reassurance to make us feel empowered and safe. She was available for questions, phone chats and meetings whenever we needed. More questions arose as we got closer to the due date and Allison always responded promptly and never made us feel silly for any of the questions we were asking. Throughout the entire labour Allison was truly amazing. She was there to talk on the phone and text in the early stages and frequently checked in. This made both my husband and I feel safe and confident that things were going the way they should. She was right by our sides throughout labour and knew what I needed before I knew. At the peak of contractions when I couldn't speak, I could look at Allison in a certain way and she would know what I needed. Truly amazing. We decided to do an unplanned home birth because things were going so well. Since this was not in our thoughts initially, there was nothing prepared. This did not phase Allison at all and she promptly helped our midwife get everything together to make this happen. More importantly, she talked my husband through what to expect, to calm him down and make sure he knew that I was safe. Overall, I couldn't have asked for a better birthing experience. I owe this to Allison for preparing my husband and I so well. To top it all off, she took incredible photos that we will cherish forever. THANK YOU ALLISON, you will always hold a special place in our hearts. - Maegan, Costa and Baby Cohen
We were referred to Allison by a friend, we met her once and knew she was the perfect fit immediately. This was our first birth and we had no idea of what to expect through pregnancy and especially the labour/delivery process. Allison provided us with the support, education and reassurance to make us feel empowered and safe. She was available for questions, phone chats and meetings whenever we needed. More questions arose as we got closer to the due date and Allison always responded promptly and never made us feel silly for any of the questions we were asking. Throughout the entire labour Allison was truly amazing. She was there to talk on the phone and text in the early stages and frequently checked in. This made both my husband and I feel safe and confident that things were going the way they should. She was right by our sides throughout labour and knew what I needed before I knew. At the peak of contractions when I couldn't speak, I could look at Allison in a certain way and she would know what I needed. Truly amazing. We decided to do an unplanned home birth because things were going so well. Since this was not in our thoughts initially, there was nothing prepared. This did not phase Allison at all and she promptly helped our midwife get everything together to make this happen. More importantly, she talked my husband through what to expect, to calm him down and make sure he knew that I was safe. Overall, I couldn't have asked for a better birthing experience. I owe this to Allison for preparing my husband and I so well. To top it all off, she took incredible photos that we will cherish forever. THANK YOU ALLISON, you will always hold a special place in our hearts. - Maegan, Costa and Baby Cohen
Britney Bell
After a tramatic birth with my first son, my husband and I thought it would be a good idea to change things up with our second pregnancy. We needed more support. We decided to go with a Midwife and a Doula. Not knowing anything about either, we soon knew that this was the best decision we ever made. The first time we met Allison, we felt like she was meant to be part of our support system. She was so welcoming, understanding, knowledgeable and compassionate. We just knew she would help us through this journey. And she really did! Through the whole pregnancy, labour and birth of our second son, she was just a phone call or text away. And now, we consider her a friend.
After a tramatic birth with my first son, my husband and I thought it would be a good idea to change things up with our second pregnancy. We needed more support. We decided to go with a Midwife and a Doula. Not knowing anything about either, we soon knew that this was the best decision we ever made. The first time we met Allison, we felt like she was meant to be part of our support system. She was so welcoming, understanding, knowledgeable and compassionate. We just knew she would help us through this journey. And she really did! Through the whole pregnancy, labour and birth of our second son, she was just a phone call or text away. And now, we consider her a friend.
April Kamensek
I contacted Allison Runnalls after a doula friend highly recommended her. There was no need to meet with any other doulas. Allison instantly made me feel supported, that I could take charge of this birth and even heal from my daughter's traumatic birth. She knew what I needed to feel safe and in control this time around. Her vast knowledge of anything pregnancy and birth related helped ease any worries throughout the pregnancy and she was always a text, email or phone call away. She was my side kick through several hospital visits informing me of my choices that I didn't even know I had and she always had my back no matter what I chose to do. Labour was fast and furious but with Allison by my side, breathing with me, riding the contractions out, knowing what I needed without me saying anything, I felt strong and in charge. I knew she had my back and I could just focus on what she was saying and listening to my body. Without her, I wouldn't have had the healing birth that I had..including catching my baby and loving this new little person without interruption after the birth. I will be forever grateful for what Allison gave me to heal and to welcome my second daughter into the world.
I contacted Allison Runnalls after a doula friend highly recommended her. There was no need to meet with any other doulas. Allison instantly made me feel supported, that I could take charge of this birth and even heal from my daughter's traumatic birth. She knew what I needed to feel safe and in control this time around. Her vast knowledge of anything pregnancy and birth related helped ease any worries throughout the pregnancy and she was always a text, email or phone call away. She was my side kick through several hospital visits informing me of my choices that I didn't even know I had and she always had my back no matter what I chose to do. Labour was fast and furious but with Allison by my side, breathing with me, riding the contractions out, knowing what I needed without me saying anything, I felt strong and in charge. I knew she had my back and I could just focus on what she was saying and listening to my body. Without her, I wouldn't have had the healing birth that I had..including catching my baby and loving this new little person without interruption after the birth. I will be forever grateful for what Allison gave me to heal and to welcome my second daughter into the world.
Cory, Nichole and baby Ella
Having Allison as our doula made our birth process a very personal, special and unique experience. Having some anxiety about becoming first time parents my husband and I felt that we needed as much guidance and support available to us. Allison did a tremendous job providing us with resources and information to help us prepare our so-called "birth plan". She was very practical and realistic about the labour and delivery process. She also provided us with important topics to learn or, at least discuss and review in order to be somewhat prepared. She even demonstrated some pain management techniques during our initial meeting.
Allison cleared her schedule and made it a priority to come assess our birth situation when the time became necessary. As our "planned" hospital birth became and "unplanned" home birth she helped keep my husband calm and guided him step by step through the entire process. She made time to follow up with us after the birth. She also utilized this time to squeeze in some breast-feeding issues and offer me some helpful tips. I recall that she was also readily available to answer my burning questions or emails.
I would describe Allison as very; approachable, informative, resourceful, non-judgemental, open-minded, and passionate. She seems very dedicated and devoted to her clients being readily available at the drop of a hat.
Heartwarmingly, I just have to also note that along with having an unplanned home birth, my husband and I were so focused on the "process" that, we never took a single photo until after our daughter was born. Unknowingly, Allison took many photos of our entire birth experience. It was so amazing, touching and unexpected of her. We will be forever grateful to have these captured moments and especially, for her being a part of it all.
Allison deserves an infinite amount of credit for her endless effort, hard work and hours. We can not thank her enough for all of the support and care she gave us during our unplanned home birth. She made it roll out as smoothly as it possible could, given the unpredictable situation. Evidently, I can not say enough positive things about her. We can only hope to have her available as our doula when the second time does come around. :)
Melanie and John
I cannot express our gratitude and appreciation for Allison G Runnalls with Doula On The Move enough.
The knowledge , the ambition , the constant uplifting attitude and eagerness to help in any way changed this pregnancy from one of uninformed guesswork to one that was planned , informed and prepared for everything that was to come. We knew what was going to happen 2 steps before it did and we were standing with our game faces ready when it did. (Hers in pain and mine white and almost passing out but still!)
Numerous nights until 3 am trying to move the baby , numerous positions and ideas to try and get this little guy in place and ready to come out , with a smile on her face and the energy of a 6yr old on Christmas morning when we were falling asleep.
No c-section . Because of you
We would have induced 2 weeks ago but you believe in the body. And it worked perfect
No unnecessary meds . Because of you
No need to medicate for it when its not there. With you we knew what it was
A happy , perfectly healthy baby , born naturally with a coach way better than I could have ever been even in my dreams.
I personally cannot thank you enough for all the wisdom you shared, the effort you put forth and the energy you gave us (more so mel ) when we needed it the most.
It is obvious you love your job and I believe that love is so important for this part of our lives , you have found a perfect fit for where you are needed.
You will always be a part of this experience .
The birth of:
Edison William Greenwood
Produced by Melanie Williams and John Greenwood
Directed by Allison Runnalls
Having Allison as our doula made our birth process a very personal, special and unique experience. Having some anxiety about becoming first time parents my husband and I felt that we needed as much guidance and support available to us. Allison did a tremendous job providing us with resources and information to help us prepare our so-called "birth plan". She was very practical and realistic about the labour and delivery process. She also provided us with important topics to learn or, at least discuss and review in order to be somewhat prepared. She even demonstrated some pain management techniques during our initial meeting.
Allison cleared her schedule and made it a priority to come assess our birth situation when the time became necessary. As our "planned" hospital birth became and "unplanned" home birth she helped keep my husband calm and guided him step by step through the entire process. She made time to follow up with us after the birth. She also utilized this time to squeeze in some breast-feeding issues and offer me some helpful tips. I recall that she was also readily available to answer my burning questions or emails.
I would describe Allison as very; approachable, informative, resourceful, non-judgemental, open-minded, and passionate. She seems very dedicated and devoted to her clients being readily available at the drop of a hat.
Heartwarmingly, I just have to also note that along with having an unplanned home birth, my husband and I were so focused on the "process" that, we never took a single photo until after our daughter was born. Unknowingly, Allison took many photos of our entire birth experience. It was so amazing, touching and unexpected of her. We will be forever grateful to have these captured moments and especially, for her being a part of it all.
Allison deserves an infinite amount of credit for her endless effort, hard work and hours. We can not thank her enough for all of the support and care she gave us during our unplanned home birth. She made it roll out as smoothly as it possible could, given the unpredictable situation. Evidently, I can not say enough positive things about her. We can only hope to have her available as our doula when the second time does come around. :)
Melanie and John
I cannot express our gratitude and appreciation for Allison G Runnalls with Doula On The Move enough.
The knowledge , the ambition , the constant uplifting attitude and eagerness to help in any way changed this pregnancy from one of uninformed guesswork to one that was planned , informed and prepared for everything that was to come. We knew what was going to happen 2 steps before it did and we were standing with our game faces ready when it did. (Hers in pain and mine white and almost passing out but still!)
Numerous nights until 3 am trying to move the baby , numerous positions and ideas to try and get this little guy in place and ready to come out , with a smile on her face and the energy of a 6yr old on Christmas morning when we were falling asleep.
No c-section . Because of you
We would have induced 2 weeks ago but you believe in the body. And it worked perfect
No unnecessary meds . Because of you
No need to medicate for it when its not there. With you we knew what it was
A happy , perfectly healthy baby , born naturally with a coach way better than I could have ever been even in my dreams.
I personally cannot thank you enough for all the wisdom you shared, the effort you put forth and the energy you gave us (more so mel ) when we needed it the most.
It is obvious you love your job and I believe that love is so important for this part of our lives , you have found a perfect fit for where you are needed.
You will always be a part of this experience .
The birth of:
Edison William Greenwood
Produced by Melanie Williams and John Greenwood
Directed by Allison Runnalls
Mary
Words cannot express how grateful I am to have had Allison with us for the birth of our son! She went above and beyond our expectations. I wasn't too sure if a doula was right for us as we're very private people, but am so happy we made the decision. I couldn't imagine his birth without her. She did so much...helping us turn the baby so he was in the right position, calming us down, giving endless advice and encouragement, taking pictures, even acting as crowd control. She is a very knowledgeable, kind, beautiful person and I give her all the credit for turning a long, stressful labour into a beautiful experience.
Sita
This was my third baby. I thought I knew it all and was very very in tune and in control with my body. So much so that I was able to subconsciously tune out the contractions right until the end. Because of this I didn't feel the majority of the contraction and wasn't aware of how close we were getting to baby time. She was amazing. She literally knew I was experiencing a contraction before I did! She suggested we go to the hospital on our walk instead of heading back home. I protested but agreed. If it wasn't for her my baby would have been born on a trail behind the hospital. I would never have made it. For this I will always be thankful. This woman knows a laboring woman!! She is smart, knowledgeable, kind, funny and a joy to have spent time with and get to know. I wouldn't have chosen another doula very proud to have her.
Season
This woman right here is fabulous. There are a select few (I feel) in the birthing world that can honestly look out for your best interests from beginning to end.. Alli is one of them. She inspired me to take control and own my birthing experience. In the end, I felt so empowered by my choices and the decisions that she helped me gain the courage to stick to. I recommend her to all of my pregnant friends because she will always be ready to answer your questions and be by your side to make it YOUR birth.
Nichole
Allison is AMAZING to say the least. I was fortunate enough to have Alli for both of my daughters births, she was able to make this life-changing experience calm, positive and happy (which is not always the case.) It was reassuring to know that my decisions and my feelings were always validated and never judged. Alli has a wealth of knowledge in this field and is an essential asset to any woman for pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding (Also great at calming the husbands) <--that one is important! She is truly a gift to her profession!!!
Justine
Let me start off by saying that Allison is one of the most amazing women I have ever known, let alone an amazing doula. I used her for informational assistance for my first birth and would have not been as to do my second or third birth without her. I guarantee you that she will make you feel comfortable, safe, powerful, and strong. She thinks of everything, whether you know you need something or not, she has it. My husband was also extremely grateful she was there; she knows just what to say or do to make you comfortable. She is your voice and gets your brain moving when you are in that moment that doctors are in your face pressuring you to make decisions. The other great thing is that there is never any pressure to do things one way or another, just information and pros and cons of each option. She is there for you and will make sure that you have the best experience possible. If we decide to have any more babies, there is no one else I would choose to be by our side.
Lara
Allison was my doula in 2002 and again in 2004. Though the births were quite different (first slow and induced; second natural and fast), Allison saved the day (well, first birth, she was there for DAYS!) by helping us deal with the steps we were going through, and by boosting my breastfeeding confidence in the critical first days when you're just not sure you're doing it correctly. In prep for my first baby, Allison came to my home to share tips on childbirth, nursing, and we worked on a birth plan. I was your typical 'type-A' check-listed first time mom hoping for a natural labour, but my baby was 10 days late and I got camped at the hospital in an induction situation. (I was healthy tho, and biked to the hospital 7km for that stress test). Allison made sure I was OK with new plans as they were introduced over the next days, and, then, when painful labour started, she was there to check in, do massage, do more massage, explain what was going on, give my husband a break, etc. After my 6 hour epidural "nap", 3 hours of pushing, my son was born and Allison was the clever one to take the photos as the rest of us were exhausted. Allison visited us at home and gave me the best instructions ever for latch. Thank you! My 2nd birth was brief and fun by comparison, and Allison was truly Doula on the Move b/c my progress was incredibly fast (as compared to first one) and Allison provided essential guidance on pacing plus helped us laugh at the whole crazy and wonderful thing. I have recommended Allison to many friends and with good reason!
Elly
Allison is an amazing human being and exactly what I needed during both of my last 2 pregnancies. Even at a 4 hour distance, Allison was available, committed and completely comforting. My family and I were more than just clients to Allison - and she was more than a doula to us. We have become friends - even family. Her innate ability to read my voice, body language and breaths allowed her to anticipate everything, sometimes even before I knew what I needed. She was proactive and helpful, and just as importantly, honest. I can always rely on Allison to give it to me straight, something that seems to be a rarity when it comes to the general obstetric community. She knows what she's talking about and I trust her completely. Thank you Allison, for being such a calm, reassuring and wonderful part of my pregnancies, births, and our familys' story. <3
Catherine
Allison was instrumental in the births of all three of my children. She was the greatest support I could have ever asked for. She helped with my birth plan, and was so knowledgeable. When I was in labor she helped me get through every contraction, and the support after I gave birth to my first helped me immensely with getting a successful breastfeeding routine going. When I became pregnant with twins, she was just as invaluable as with my first. She stood behind my decision for a natural birth, and again helped me through every contraction. I had a somewhat pushy OB who decided I needed an epidural, but Allison respected my wishes and backed me as I firmly declined. I love that she was there for me forevery step of both my pregnancies, the after birth and lactation support, and the fact that I'm lucky enough to count her as one of my best friends. Being a doula isnt her job, its her calling, she's a natural!
Pamela
Highly recommend Allison. Couldn't have done it without her and my husband by my side. 3 of my girlfriends will be requesting you this winter ;)
Cecile
I just want to start off by saying that I am a very private person when it comes to things that are happening to me and Allison not only observed that on her own but she completely respected it. My experience with Allison is a little different because she wasn’t physically there when either of my children was delivered (by my choice) but she was mentally supportive for me the entire pregnancy and after. I felt that I could ask her a thousand questions at any time even if it was one every minute and she was always happy to provide explanations and suggestions. Trust me, some days it felt like a thousand questions. With my first child she was a fantastic lactation consultant! Far better than the drop in clinics they tell you to try or the home nurse. She actually explained the positioning and made me do it instead of getting him to latch her. With my second she gave me power. What I mean by that is she talked about enjoying the experience and going at my own pace not anyone else’s. This was extremely different than my first as I was induced and the whole experience seemed very “stop and go”. After the second delivery I felt like wonder woman and the first person I wanted to share that with was her. She will always tell you the information you’re looking for and let you decide then back you up 100%. I recommend her to everyone I know that is pregnant because I don’t know what I would have done without her!
Stay Awesome!
Sarah
Allison is beautiful, amazing person.
Upon finding out our baby was breech at 36 weeks, my husband who had known her prior, called her for advice. Even though it was short notice at 36 weeks, Allison offered her services to us.
She had great ideas to turn the baby. We tried them, but came to the conclusion that Caleb just didn't want to turn. She also educated us on breech birth, and regardless of the negativity and lack of hope in the medical world, helped me to be more confident and prepared for a breech delivery. She drove out to see us on a few occasions, and on delivery day, met us at the Vancouver Women's Hospital, the only place breech delivery was possible.
Had she not been there, I may not have been successful in delivering breech, as the hospital had VERY specific guidelines regarding progress and intervention. I was only given 8 hours maximum of active labor in the hospital, and was given an epidural against my will (which did not work, might I add, it was too late). Her expertise and talent in reading my emotions, and timing my contractions; as well as her kind words of hope gave me and my support persons the hope and confidence to get through it. I dilated from a 4 to an 8 within 4 hours, maybe even less.
Caleb Marcial was born by Natural Vaginal Breech delivery March 9, 2014 at 12:38 am.
Thank you so much Auntie Allison, you are family to us now, and forever in our hearts ♥
Words cannot express how grateful I am to have had Allison with us for the birth of our son! She went above and beyond our expectations. I wasn't too sure if a doula was right for us as we're very private people, but am so happy we made the decision. I couldn't imagine his birth without her. She did so much...helping us turn the baby so he was in the right position, calming us down, giving endless advice and encouragement, taking pictures, even acting as crowd control. She is a very knowledgeable, kind, beautiful person and I give her all the credit for turning a long, stressful labour into a beautiful experience.
Sita
This was my third baby. I thought I knew it all and was very very in tune and in control with my body. So much so that I was able to subconsciously tune out the contractions right until the end. Because of this I didn't feel the majority of the contraction and wasn't aware of how close we were getting to baby time. She was amazing. She literally knew I was experiencing a contraction before I did! She suggested we go to the hospital on our walk instead of heading back home. I protested but agreed. If it wasn't for her my baby would have been born on a trail behind the hospital. I would never have made it. For this I will always be thankful. This woman knows a laboring woman!! She is smart, knowledgeable, kind, funny and a joy to have spent time with and get to know. I wouldn't have chosen another doula very proud to have her.
Season
This woman right here is fabulous. There are a select few (I feel) in the birthing world that can honestly look out for your best interests from beginning to end.. Alli is one of them. She inspired me to take control and own my birthing experience. In the end, I felt so empowered by my choices and the decisions that she helped me gain the courage to stick to. I recommend her to all of my pregnant friends because she will always be ready to answer your questions and be by your side to make it YOUR birth.
Nichole
Allison is AMAZING to say the least. I was fortunate enough to have Alli for both of my daughters births, she was able to make this life-changing experience calm, positive and happy (which is not always the case.) It was reassuring to know that my decisions and my feelings were always validated and never judged. Alli has a wealth of knowledge in this field and is an essential asset to any woman for pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding (Also great at calming the husbands) <--that one is important! She is truly a gift to her profession!!!
Justine
Let me start off by saying that Allison is one of the most amazing women I have ever known, let alone an amazing doula. I used her for informational assistance for my first birth and would have not been as to do my second or third birth without her. I guarantee you that she will make you feel comfortable, safe, powerful, and strong. She thinks of everything, whether you know you need something or not, she has it. My husband was also extremely grateful she was there; she knows just what to say or do to make you comfortable. She is your voice and gets your brain moving when you are in that moment that doctors are in your face pressuring you to make decisions. The other great thing is that there is never any pressure to do things one way or another, just information and pros and cons of each option. She is there for you and will make sure that you have the best experience possible. If we decide to have any more babies, there is no one else I would choose to be by our side.
Lara
Allison was my doula in 2002 and again in 2004. Though the births were quite different (first slow and induced; second natural and fast), Allison saved the day (well, first birth, she was there for DAYS!) by helping us deal with the steps we were going through, and by boosting my breastfeeding confidence in the critical first days when you're just not sure you're doing it correctly. In prep for my first baby, Allison came to my home to share tips on childbirth, nursing, and we worked on a birth plan. I was your typical 'type-A' check-listed first time mom hoping for a natural labour, but my baby was 10 days late and I got camped at the hospital in an induction situation. (I was healthy tho, and biked to the hospital 7km for that stress test). Allison made sure I was OK with new plans as they were introduced over the next days, and, then, when painful labour started, she was there to check in, do massage, do more massage, explain what was going on, give my husband a break, etc. After my 6 hour epidural "nap", 3 hours of pushing, my son was born and Allison was the clever one to take the photos as the rest of us were exhausted. Allison visited us at home and gave me the best instructions ever for latch. Thank you! My 2nd birth was brief and fun by comparison, and Allison was truly Doula on the Move b/c my progress was incredibly fast (as compared to first one) and Allison provided essential guidance on pacing plus helped us laugh at the whole crazy and wonderful thing. I have recommended Allison to many friends and with good reason!
Elly
Allison is an amazing human being and exactly what I needed during both of my last 2 pregnancies. Even at a 4 hour distance, Allison was available, committed and completely comforting. My family and I were more than just clients to Allison - and she was more than a doula to us. We have become friends - even family. Her innate ability to read my voice, body language and breaths allowed her to anticipate everything, sometimes even before I knew what I needed. She was proactive and helpful, and just as importantly, honest. I can always rely on Allison to give it to me straight, something that seems to be a rarity when it comes to the general obstetric community. She knows what she's talking about and I trust her completely. Thank you Allison, for being such a calm, reassuring and wonderful part of my pregnancies, births, and our familys' story. <3
Catherine
Allison was instrumental in the births of all three of my children. She was the greatest support I could have ever asked for. She helped with my birth plan, and was so knowledgeable. When I was in labor she helped me get through every contraction, and the support after I gave birth to my first helped me immensely with getting a successful breastfeeding routine going. When I became pregnant with twins, she was just as invaluable as with my first. She stood behind my decision for a natural birth, and again helped me through every contraction. I had a somewhat pushy OB who decided I needed an epidural, but Allison respected my wishes and backed me as I firmly declined. I love that she was there for me forevery step of both my pregnancies, the after birth and lactation support, and the fact that I'm lucky enough to count her as one of my best friends. Being a doula isnt her job, its her calling, she's a natural!
Pamela
Highly recommend Allison. Couldn't have done it without her and my husband by my side. 3 of my girlfriends will be requesting you this winter ;)
Cecile
I just want to start off by saying that I am a very private person when it comes to things that are happening to me and Allison not only observed that on her own but she completely respected it. My experience with Allison is a little different because she wasn’t physically there when either of my children was delivered (by my choice) but she was mentally supportive for me the entire pregnancy and after. I felt that I could ask her a thousand questions at any time even if it was one every minute and she was always happy to provide explanations and suggestions. Trust me, some days it felt like a thousand questions. With my first child she was a fantastic lactation consultant! Far better than the drop in clinics they tell you to try or the home nurse. She actually explained the positioning and made me do it instead of getting him to latch her. With my second she gave me power. What I mean by that is she talked about enjoying the experience and going at my own pace not anyone else’s. This was extremely different than my first as I was induced and the whole experience seemed very “stop and go”. After the second delivery I felt like wonder woman and the first person I wanted to share that with was her. She will always tell you the information you’re looking for and let you decide then back you up 100%. I recommend her to everyone I know that is pregnant because I don’t know what I would have done without her!
Stay Awesome!
Sarah
Allison is beautiful, amazing person.
Upon finding out our baby was breech at 36 weeks, my husband who had known her prior, called her for advice. Even though it was short notice at 36 weeks, Allison offered her services to us.
She had great ideas to turn the baby. We tried them, but came to the conclusion that Caleb just didn't want to turn. She also educated us on breech birth, and regardless of the negativity and lack of hope in the medical world, helped me to be more confident and prepared for a breech delivery. She drove out to see us on a few occasions, and on delivery day, met us at the Vancouver Women's Hospital, the only place breech delivery was possible.
Had she not been there, I may not have been successful in delivering breech, as the hospital had VERY specific guidelines regarding progress and intervention. I was only given 8 hours maximum of active labor in the hospital, and was given an epidural against my will (which did not work, might I add, it was too late). Her expertise and talent in reading my emotions, and timing my contractions; as well as her kind words of hope gave me and my support persons the hope and confidence to get through it. I dilated from a 4 to an 8 within 4 hours, maybe even less.
Caleb Marcial was born by Natural Vaginal Breech delivery March 9, 2014 at 12:38 am.
Thank you so much Auntie Allison, you are family to us now, and forever in our hearts ♥
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