Since the age of thirteen when we were forced to watch “The Miracle of Life” in science class, I have been TERRIFIED of ever giving birth. It was actually a factor in my decision to have children. Once I became pregnant, I decided the easiest course of action would be to avoid thinking about the birth process as much as possible, and to find ways to “distract” myself while I was in labor. Meeting with Lou changed everything. She re-framed the way I thought about birth, to the point where I began to get excited to go into labor. She was a great source of information that complimented and expanded on what I had learned from my hospital’s birth class. She helped me come up with a birth plan that I felt great about, and ultimately was able to stick to. During the actual birth process she was a source of encouragement, a calming presence, and her HANDS were gifts sent from heaven! I cannot imagine giving birth without Lou being a part of it, and I don’t think I would have had such a great birth experience if it were not or her.