Jennifer (births of Bea and Jasper)
Honestly I am a private person and it is not always easy for me to accept help in the ways I really need it. It can feel so vulnerable. However during both of my births Sara was my unwavering support. It was much easier for me to accept help from her then from my husband (I love you honey). Sara was constant without being overwhelming. It felt as though she knew the timing of when and what to ask. During a time of such deep inward focus, she supported me without getting in my way. For me that is very high praise. Worth everything. I feel and felt completely at ease with Sara. I recommend her as a doula whole-heartedly.
Bart - Partner — (births of Bea and Jasper)
Sara Nolan was there for us. She was completely present, insightful and connected what was happening with Jen throughout the labor, leading up to and during the birth. She was able direct Jen in a way that empowered her, guiding her to that big moment when our kids' emerged into the world. Sara is energetically very sensitive and intuits what is happening during the process. She helped me tremendously when I was completely at a loss by being with Jen in a way that I wasn't able to. She is gifted, to say the least. I recommend her with enthusiasm and love.
Johanna (births of Nora and Oliver)
One of the things that was so valuable to me in having Sara at my births was that I felt supported in all my choices even when I had to make choices I didn’t like. I never felt judged or like she was afraid of my potential for later regret. That was invaluable to me! Sara attuned and held space for the process as it unfolded- she stayed present and adapted to my needs and the needs of the situation as they changed.
Trish - Partner (birth of Homer)
Sara and Em (NOTE: we work together as Take Heart Doulas!) supported us far beyond anything we could have imagined. Having trusted, friendly, calming, and extremely responsive help during the challenges of pregnancy was amazing. Em and Sara brought us that feeling of the wisdom of the village, and kept us in touch with the magic of bringing new life into the world. A few favorite memories, beyond the super helpful discussions in the lead-up: though I’m shy about getting a massage, Em’s bodywork session was so helpful that I got a session for my partner for their birthday. Sara accompanied us for a long induced labor, giving us essential space to think about our options. For example, the doctor offered to break my water, but Sara helped us think about the range of possibilities and we decided to try some more positions on the birth ball to get the baby to descend more first. This was a great decision, which, I think, encouraged a speedier labor and got me feeling more in touch with the process and more confident before I got my planned epidural. Sara also guided my 3 hours of pushing with great care and encouragement. After the birth, Em dropped by with the best-ever lactation cookies and comfrey for a sitz bath, then Sara came to give us some gentle pointers on breastfeeding. Sara and Em’s support encompassed all of our greatest challenges and questions. My partner says: “They were our guides between our world and the other side — they helped us stay in touch with the other stuff, not the boring earth thinking, but the magical stuff.”
A.- (birth of N)
Sara, you are amazing. Thank you so much. Parenthood is next level challenging. I’m craving that uncritical support you’ve given to me so beautifully through this process - I’m so grateful for that.
Sara brings knowledge, humor and a profound care to her work. I felt completely supported and held by Sara in my process of becoming a new mom. I was truly moved by the level of attentiveness Sara provided, checking in and making herself available in one of my most vulnerable times. I often feel shy reaching out for support but Sara made it clear no question was too much or too minor. Sara’s deep understanding of the transition into motherhood both physically, emotionally and even spiritually allows her to be a resource unlike any other. I had a number of people on “my team” when I gave birth to my twin girls but in the end it was Sara who tirelessly showed up for me, affirming my experience and offering guidance and love to fortify me along the way. If you have an opportunity to work with Sara I urge you to do so, it will be a gift to yourself and in turn your baby.
G.- (births of twins)
Sara was such a support throughout my pregnancy and delivery. I honestly don’t know how I could have gone through this process without her. As a first-time mom, I had a lot of questions and anxiety about how everything would unfold. She brought a calm presence and serenity that I needed. Practically, when I was unsure about something she guided me to make a decision for myself that was right for me, my husband and my baby. Never judging or inserting her own opinion, she provided information and gave me as much factual direction that was good for me. Emotionally, she checked in on me and was available anytime I needed her (even if it was just to vent) both before and after the pregnancy. One of the biggest benefits for me in working with her is that I knew she would be there to support me and we could figure it out, no matter what happened. Her help was invaluable to both me and my husband.