It is a pleasure and honor to write this letter of reference for Journey Revington. As I began this process of trying to convey our experience with Journey’s Doula services, I found myself struggling to put our feelings into words. In fact, I realized that there was no way to adequately capture our appreciation and gratitude. The only way I have found is to compare her presence to my own feelings as a parent and the incredible adoration I have for the son she helped to bring into this world. Please forgive this awkward attempt to capture with words the amazing love and support that Journey brought to our labor and birth process.

Anyone can become a parent. They can read books and perform the necessary duties to care for a child. It takes something more to be a great parent – something you can’t learn in a book. One must have a deep, loving concern for their child and the commitment to support him through all of life’s experiences. This is what distinguishes Journey, as well. I could write about the thorough services she offers, the effectiveness of her massage techniques, and her knowledge about birth positions. I could verify that she was prompt when we called her and stayed with us throughout our lengthy labor and birth. But you can find these qualities in any doula. Journey brought with her a truly loving spirit and the ability to connect and to “read” our energy, suggesting just the right idea at just the right time. She used her intuitive abilities to give extra support to me when it was needed and to encourage my husband to support me using various positions. Journey knew when I needed an extra soft touch, giving hugs, foot and leg massages, or bringing me a flower from the garden. She also knew when to stand firm, answering my “I don’t know if I can do it” with a definitive “Yes you can!” I truly believe that Journey’s support and guidance gave me the ability to complete our 45-hour labor as we had intended – without pain medication.

Journey’s unique care did not end with the birth of our son. During our follow-up appointment, she helped us process our feelings about the birth, acknowledging our disappointments where the process strayed from the original plans, and celebrating our strengths and ultimate success in birthing our son naturally. She openly invited feedback about her own participation, in order to continue to fine tune her skills for future clients. (As you might guess, we only had positive feedback and complete gratitude for her.) During this visit, Journey was also extremely helpful with breastfeeding support. Again, she was able to suggest just the right position, and gently guide me and my son through “latching on” correctly, helping to ensure that the next year of nursing would be positive and fulfilling for us both.

Journey has a unique gift to share with those entering the birthing process. She was amazing throughout our labor and birth, and it is without any hesitation that I recommend her for yours. With love and blessings for the birth of your child,

Jessica R. Clark