Today we’d like to introduce you to Teresa Jennings.
Hi Teresa, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
I am the mother of three sons 19, 16, and 3 years of age . I married to the most patient and supportive spouse anyone could ask for. My family is what has always driven my work and commitment. It’s important that my kids see me set goals and achieve them. It doesn’t matter how long it takes to complete them, what matters is that I started. The birth realm has always been of interest to me. One of my favorite shows as a pre-teen was ” A Baby Story” . It depicted real life stories of families bringing new life into the world. It was fascinating to watch. I had no idea it was only the beginning of my passion for pregnancy and childbirth.
I believe what makes me unique is my transparency with clients. I don’t pretend to know everything. I have found that clients trust you more when they see you are human too. No one person knows it all. I believe we should all be lifelong learners. I learn from my clients just like they learn from me. Being a doula is not just a job, it’s my purpose.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One challenge is the lack of knowledge families have about their basic rights in maternal healthcare. Or even healthcare in general. Our society has given so much control of our wellbeing to healthcare providers, we have forgotten the simple concept of body autonomy and choices. Expectant families are entitled to other options. It’s ok to get a second or third opinion when it comes to your care. There are so many people unaware they can question their provider’s care. Or even refuse certain tests and procedures. The current maternal healthcare field is long overdue for change.
Accessibility to quality and equitable care is something that isn’t afforded to all. Black women who have the highest maternal death rate, don’t always receive fair or safe healthcare. Our detriment doesn’t have anything to do with our education or financial background. The biggest obstacle we face is something that can’t be changed and it’s our skin color. To be a pregnant black woman is like playing a game of russian roulette. Imagine one of the most special moments in your life being filled with fear and uncertainty. Will her birth story transition into life with a new baby or is her birth story the final chapter? I don’t mean to make it sound so harsh but it’s the reality for so many families. I want families to know they have options for support. Our society gives families a false sense of security that hospitals are the safest place. In reality, you can have all the emergency tools and equipment right there in arms reach but still not go home. In my opinion, you are only as safe as the provider you choose. I encourage you to do research on providers even before you are pregnant so you don’t have to feel rushed. If you don’t feel heard it’s ok to speak up. If that doesn’t work change providers and this goes for Midwives and Obstetricians. Never be scared to speak up for YOU! At the end of the day your life matters and has meaning . Remember “hashtags” are always short-lived. The tragedy trends for a minute and then the world moves on… until the next time. Your family is left to make sure you are never forgotten.
We’ve been impressed with Doulas For Life, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Doulas for Life provides unbiased and non-judgemental support to families in the community. In the birth world, we seek to change the narratives of how birth is viewed. Birth is a natural part of life and shouldn’t be based in fear. Expectant families should be the leader of their birth team. We encourage them to treat their birth experience just like their wedding day. A wedding usually starts with a plan, and birth isn’t any different. Birth is unpredictable just like life, but it doesn’t stop us from creating a plan. It may not always go as planned but we have a starting point. Our goal is to make sure families use their voices to speak up and be confident in their chosen providers. I don’t speak for my clients, but instead equip them with the tools and knowledge to receive the care they deserve.
Birth isn’t the end of our support, our care transitions from being birth cheerleaders to helping families navigate the postpartum period or fourth trimester. The fourth trimester is the time most people may not think to prepare for. Most people focus on pregnancy, baby showers and material items. Although those little outfits and baby gadgets are so cute, they mean nothing when you are sleep deprived and have a crying baby. The fourth trimester can be one of the hardest, most lonely, and emotional times for a new family. Postpartum Doulas can be a great addition to help the families in the midst of the chaos. We are there to say ” we got you”. We can prepare nourishing meals, help with all newborn tasks, let you take a nap and just “hold space ” for all those unexpressed emotions that seem like your new normal. We become a part of your village for life.
Doulas for life helps families set realistic new parent goals that are specific to their needs. Every goal is considered a rough draft with plenty of room for edits. It isn’t our job to tell families how they should parent. We want families to understand there is no actual manual or handbook to being a parent. Parenting is an ever evolving job and each day they should strive to do their best. If everyone survived with smiles and a few tears shed… it was a good day.
So maybe we end up discussing what matters most to you and why.
What matters to me is that my clients are seen and heard. Most people just want to know that someone simply cares. To lend an ear or helping hand is one of the most invaluable things a doula can provide. As a professional doula, my unbiased support is what matters to them. However they choose to parent is up to them. At the end of the day, it’s their story. I am just honored to be a part of it.
Thank you for allowing me to tell a part of my story.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.doulasforlife.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourdoulaforlife/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YourDoulaforLife/
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