Euni was the backup doula for the one I initally hired, and I am so incredibly grateful. Euni spent the first 7-8 hours of my labor in the hospital with me. We had no prior communication between the two of us, yet she was instantly able to jump in and offer support in the ways I had discussed with the doula I hired, but most importantly in the way that I needed. She did a lot of counter pressure and taught my partner how to do it was well. So she was able to guide him and offer him support in being a phenomenal, involved parent during my labor as well. She was attentive in noticing minimal signals from me when contractions would start and I needed support. She worked really well with the hospital staff and my doctor in coordinating my care and support. When we made a plan on how to endure certain moments, she was able to retain specific pillow configurations so I did not have to expend energy explaining what I needed each time.
On top of all the physical support, her presence was so reassuring and positive energy to be around. Truthfully most of our interaction during labor was as needed for phsyical support, but that was per my birth plan, and allowed me to focus on my body and listening to what it needed. I have no doubts that she is fully capable of fascilitating different commuication and support styles/needs other than the ones I experienced.
She came to visit once within our first week home and I was delighted to confirm that she is an absolute pillar of serenity and comfort outside of labor as well!
My labor was 17 hours long in the hospital and ended in an inevitable c-section, but if it weren't for Euni's support through the worst of it all, I would be traumatized by my experience. Instead, I reflect with nothing but feelings of warmth and blessings and have only good memories. Navigating challenges are moments of strenth, not strife, in my birth story because of her. Thank you so much, Euni!