Testimonials

Ian Asher Price
Born: June 10, 2010 at 5:51am
7lbs. 10oz.  22″
Proud Parents: Adam & Kayla

Dear Kathryn,

We want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being a part of the birth of our first child, Ian Asher. When I think back on his birth and the months leading up to it, one of the things I remember most is your strong guidance and calming presence. As first time parents, we didn’t know what to expect and had a lot of questions and concerns.

You met with us several times and checked in on us many times before the big day to alleviate any fears we may have had. Just knowing that you would be there with us to guide us through labor and delivery put both of our minds at ease.

And then he was on his way here! You were there helping us every step of the way, exactly what we needed, suggesting different ways to make it through the contractions until I was ready for an epidural. Then came the three hours of pushing! You were right there next to the bed with us the whole time, helping and coaching us. When Baby Ian finally arrived, I knew it was a special moment for all of us.
Thank you so much for sharing in this exciting and beautiful time with us. I cannot imagine having gone through it without you.  Adam & Kayla Price

Camryn MacKenzie Sikes
Born: June 20, 2010
8 lbs. 15 oz.  19 1/2″
Proud Family:  Kassi, Brian & Conner

‘Kathryn wasn’t supposed to be our Doula, she was our backup doula. From the first time that I talked to her (I was already in labor), she was very helpful and sweet and calmed me down right away. She made it to the hospital quickly and came with all her gear!! My labor was very quick and easy, and 100% natural (no drugs) and Kathryn played a big part in that. I am so glad that we got Kathryn as our doula. Thank You!!’

Nia Evangeline CO
Born:  July 31, 2010
7 lbs.14oz.   20″
Proud family:  Allen, Kristen and Jackson

After a very difficult labor and delivery with our first child, we knew that we wanted to have a doula present for our second childbirth.  Kathryn met with us several times before our daughter arrived, and each time she listened carefully to what our wishes for this childbirth were.  Kathryn was positive and encouraging.  We felt she supported us fully in our childbirth plan, without imposing her own agenda.

When the BIG day came, things happened very quickly once we arrived at the hospital.  Our nurses were out of the room and my contractions started coming quickly but because Kathryn was there, my husband didn’t worry as much.  Her presence freed him up to really focus on me and help me through the contractions.  Kathryn was sensitive to the connection between my husband and I and supported us however she could, especially in helping us communicate with the hospital staff.  When Nia arrived, Kathryn was the first one to tell us we had a baby girl.  She also helped us capture some amazing photos of Nia’s first minutes!  We got to have the birthing experience we both wanted and we are grateful that we had Kathryn as our doula.

Ace Valiant Ortiz
Born:  Dec. 1, 2010 at 5:10 pm
7 pounds 10 oz.  20.5″
Proud family: Holly, Juan, Lily & Maverick

 

I am a mother of three and for my third delivery my husband was being deployed to the east coast so I was hoping for support during the birth of our third child. I found Kathryn and I was happy to find that she is a very sweet and kind person. Kathryn was very patient and helpful during the birth of my son. She almost seemed to read my mind as to what I needed from her. My husband amazingly was able to make the birth and was pleasantly surprised as to how much support and assurance she gave us. My husband was able to take moments to himself because he new that I would be cared for. If I do have another child I will be calling on Kathryn and I will gladly recommend her to anyone who is looking for the support of a doula.

Cambria Ireland
Born: Dec 5, 2010
6 pounds 14 oz.   19″
Proud Parents: Cynthia & Noel

 

 

Leah Susanna Leach
Born:  Dec. 7, 2010 at 6:06 pm
7 pounds 2 oz.   19 1/4″
Proud Family: Ryan, Heidi & Levi

My husband and I were told Kathryn had her doula license while pregnant with our second child. The birth of our first child, Levi ended up being a C-section. I decided shortly after his birth I wanted to attempt a VBAC with our second child. We felt a doula would allow us more time to spend together during the birth process, to be more relaxed and have someone to advocate for us if necessary.
We met with Kathryn a number of times before the birth and she was always encouraging and willing to answer any questions. We were pleased she took on our family, as the due date was close to Christmas.

During the labor process Kathryn was very helpful, as she knew the answers to questions I had about the labor process (I did not labor as far with my first). She helped me focus on my breathing, when I would panic. Having her present made things more comfortable for me and my husband. For me, it felt like I had my mom in the room. I knew that she would not let me endure anything that was not necessary and she was going to support me in whatever decisions I made regarding the birth process. For my husband, having her there allowed him to be relaxed and not stress thinking about what he should or should not be doing for me. I could tell he was more at ease during this birth than with the birth of our son.
If we have a third child we will pick Kathryn again. We were very happy with our experience. We successfully had our daughter, Leah Susanna on 12/7/10 via VBAC (Kathryn’s first VBAC). We would like to say, “Thank you Kathryn for helping make our birth process very positive.” We will be passing your name along. I can say this birth was enjoyed much more than our first. This will always be a fond memory for us.

Audrey Selma Tokat-Dunlop
Born: Jan 3, 2011
7 pounds 3 oz.   20″
Proud Parents:  Ani & Ryan

Kathryn is absolutely a gem. I bonded with her from the first day I met her. She’s real. To her, being a Doula is not just any job. She spent a lot of time getting to know me and my husband first . She’s positive, caring, very inquisitive. At the time of delivery, my husband and I were definitely clueless. It was so refreshing to have her next to us. She advised me to rest up in between contractions because I had a lot of work ahead of me. Work? What work if I already had an epidural, right? Wrong! Had I not followed her advice, I don’t think I would have had the energy for the final stage of my delivery, yes, pushing! It took 30 minutes of pushing, and my beautiful baby was born. And I seriously didn’t feel tired, thanks to Kathryn’s warning. Since the delivery, Kathryn has visited us several times and has shown great closeness to our family. She will forever hold a special part in our hearts. Thank you, Kathryn!

Scarlette Valentina
Born: Feb 12, 2011  at 11:43 pm
8 lbs 7.4 oz 21″
Proud parents: Kimberley & Giovanni

My husband and I do not have any family in the country and we were looking
for a Doula to provide support during the birth of our first child. We met with
Kathryn and we connected right away. She was a help from the very beginning and
provided educational material to us during my pregnancy as well as advice and
support. During the birth of our daughter she was wonderful. She was there right
from the hospital check in and stayed there throughout a very long labour, all
the while offering support and encouragement. Afterwards she gave us copies of
photos she took during the labour, as well as a written memory of the birth. It
was such a special thing to have. She also visited us post postpartum to see how
things were going and offer advice and tips.We will always have a special place
in our hearts for Kathryn and it would not have been the same experience without
her involvement. Every woman truly needs a Doula and I would recommend her
services to any expectant couple.

Lincoln Anderson Philip Dixon
Born:  Feb 15, 2011
8 lbs. 4 oz 21″
Proud Parents: Kristy & Cody Dixon

 

When my husband and I learned of our pregnancy, we felt sheer joy, excitement and blessed anticipation. Very quickly, however, feelings of fear and nervousness set in about the labor and delivery process. As a first time mom, I was experiencing a lot of anxiety over the new experience of birthing a child that I would soon be embarking on. We chose Kathryn as our doula because she exhibited such wisdom about pregnancy, the delivery, and what to expect of life with a newborn.

Kathryn was always available, day or night, anytime I had a question. Whether it was as gross as sending her a picture text message asking “Is THIS my mucus plug?”, or as deeply emotional as calming my fears of if I was going to be a good mother, she tended to and exceeded my needs every time.

Kathryn was so loving and patient in teaching us what to expect that when delivery day came, we felt well educated and prepared, and the many fears that once clouded above our heads, were nowhere to be found. She did an amazing job of making sure we understood all of our options in the hospital and did everything imaginable to make our birth plan a success.

My labor took 31 hours and Kathryn was there to cheer us on and support us the entire time. She maintained an upbeat attitude and kept my husband and I from getting discouraged when things were progressing slowly. Kathryn did everything possible to keep me comfortable and relaxed. After 3 long hours of pushing, our baby was finally born naturally, and I am 100% confident that if Kathryn had not been there, I would have been forced into a c-section.

Not only did Kathryn support me through the before, during and after process of childbirth, she also gave my husband the tools HE needed to feel comfortable and be the ultimate support system for me. Kathryn is a part of our family now, and I will most definitely use her as my doula for every baby that I bring into this world. Kathryn didn’t just help get me through a pregnancy and delivery, but she taught me how to be a loving and confident mother, which is truly the most beautiful gift of all. THANK YOU KATHRYN!

Isabelle Joy Klaassen
March 18, 2011  at 9:52 am
5 lbs 7 oz  18 1/2″
Proud parent: Krystal & Corey

My husband and I decided for our first experience of labor and delivery we wanted someone to support and lead us. I had some prior fears of pregnancy and delivery. I wanted to avoid a situation of unmanaged pain that would lead to a fearful and stressful delivery. We were planning for a natural birth that would be managed through a calm and peaceful setting of breathing and pain management techniques. I know Kathryn from my church, she is truly gifted for this service. Her open and welcoming personality makes it easy to share with her your wishes and expectations of your birth experience. Kathryn offers wonderful support, coaching, experience, and knowledge to you and your partner during your pregnancy and delivery. Her reassuring words of support and encouragement helped me in my most trying time of delivery. Kathryn is a special friend and she has my highest recommendation. We will be asking Kathryn to support us again as our doula when we are ready for a second baby!

Everett Jason Sanford
March 21, 2011 at 8:07 am
9 lbs 6 oz    21 1/2″
Proud Parents:  Jason & Sarah

 21 weeks & over 18 pounds!

 

Oliver Matthew Lockin
Born:  April 14, 2011
6 lbs 5 oz.  21″
Proud Parents:  Gary & Vikki

Kathryn was a blessing and godsend in our challenging labor and delivery. From the first time I met her, I knew her calm and gentle approach would be exactly what I needed. I was in labor for approximately 30 hours and faced various complications in our hospital birth. She was with me from the start, holding my hand, guiding me through visualizations and relaxation, helping me get in positions, and giving

my husband much needed breaks to go grab some food or make phone calls. I remember a moment when I was exhausted from the labor and was trying to get some sleep. I opened my eyes and felt alone in a strange setting, but then I saw Kathryn quietly sitting close by, and I was able to relax. I am forever grateful for her presence with my newborn son.

My husband was in the operating room with me during my C-Section, and her loving hand and soothing voice with my newborn baby boy soothed and comforted him so that he was never alone. She hasn’t disappeared, either! She continues to support and communicate with me after my delivery and I know Kathryn will not just be my doula but my lifelong friend. -Victoria Cabrera

 

Riley Ann Weaver
April 24, 2011
7 lbs 3 oz   19.6″
Proud Parents: Jodie & Chad

Noah David
April 29, 2011
12:28 pm
8 pounds 19 1/4″
Proud Parents: Kristy & David

My original plan was to have a home birth with Jacque Moschella and have Sarah, her assistant come and be my doula. I went into labor 10 days early and Sarah was out of town at her cousins wedding and was unable to be there. Kathryn was able to come as her back up.

When she arrived I was already done with transition and ready to start pushing. So really it was perfect timing.

Kathryn did an awesome job holding me up in the tub, keeping me hydrated, as well as keeping the waters clean:) I had a very good experience and the birth was rather quick and easy. I have to say after labor is where she came most helpful. While assisting Jacque she was quick to replace sheets on the bed and clean and blow dry stains. She was awesome!!!

Turns out, that it was her first home birth experience! I was amazed how calm and confident she was being her first time.

Kathryn also came and visited us about a month after the birth to offer support and nursing guidance, which was very sweet and thoughful.

I definately recommend Kathryn for her doula services. She is a sincere and very tender hearted lady, ideal for a birth atmosphere.

Lincoln Ellis Lassen
Born:  May 26, 2011
5 lbs 10 oz    19″
Proud Family:  CJ, Erica & Charlotte

 

 

 

 

 

Jordyn Mae Kleinknight
Born: June 2, 2011
6 lbs 13 oz   20″
Proud Parents:  Brittnee & Darren

I was looking for a doula and meet with about 5 different ones and when I met with Kathryn I knew that she was going to be my doula from the begining. She was very loving and caring from the first time that I met her. I was looking for someone that could be there if my husband was unable to make due to his work. I  also wanted someone that could help me through this part of my life because I did not want have any medication ( I did end up getting it anyways) and Kathryn was the one that I choose. From the begining she said that this is my birth and what ever I wanted is what she would do. In the birth of my daughter she was great  I called her at 11:00pm and she walked me through what I needed to do. When we got to the hospital and were settled in and making some progess she was right there by my side doing everything that she could to keep me calm and make sure that my husband was eating andtaken care of as well. When we do have our next child we will be using Kathryn again! We love her very much for everything. Kathryn was not just our doula but now she is a part of the Kleinknight Family.

Corah Nicole
Born: June 7, 2011 at 1:30 am
8 lbs 8 oz  19 1/4″
Proud Family:  Rhiannon, Kyle & Loewen

 Melody Ryan Smith

Born:  July 19, 2011 at 3:05 pm
7 lbs 13 oz.
Proud Parents:  Eric & Brytnee

 

Analia Rose Janzen
Born: Aug 3, 2011 at 7:37 am
6 lbs 13 oz
Proud Parents:  Robin & Chris

Kathryn was a tremendous help during labor. I can not express my gratitude enough for her help! I wanted to have a natural birth with no meds and I never could have done it with out her. She was so calm throughout and knew just how to help guide me and my husband through the labor process. She had a handout comparing labor pains to waves which helped both of us get through the hard ones. I knew that the intense pain would end eventually and I could rest which made it possible to breath through each contraction and my husband knew what to expect contractions to be like. The birthing ball was also so helpful and I spent most of labor on the ball which made my contractions much easier to bare. She was also very helpful in preparing for birth. I never would have thought to bring chapstick to the delivery but it was a lifesaver. We also enjoyed the many DVD’s she had on birthing options and ways to prepare for labor. My birth experience was exactly how I wanted things to go and much of that I owe to Kathryn!

Callen James Burchnell
Born: Aug 11, 2011
6 pounds 9 oz
Proud parents:  Nick & Leanna

My husband and I hired a doula because we were unsure he would be able to be at the birth due to his job, and it was a relief to know someone would be there with me. We had also taken Bradley Classes and wanted someone who would respect our wishes. Kathryn was exactly what we were looking for. When the day came, she met us at the hospital and was very helpful. My Labor was long, and unfortunately ended up with a C section delivery… but i am confident we had done everything we could to deliver naturally. The end result was the important part… Healthy Baby! We were grateful for the support Kathryn provided. I’m confident that if we decide to have another child, we’ll be giving Kathryn a call.

Alexandra Diane Rodriguez
Born: Aug. 20, 2011
6 lbs 11 oz.
Proud Family:  Freddie, Heather & Cammie

 

Benjamin Anthony Toal Garcia
Born:  Oct 20, 2011
8 lbs 10 oz.
Proud parents:  Amy & Steven

 

 

 

 

Clara Elizabeth Smith
Born: Nov. 6, 2011
7 lbs 12 oz.
Proud Parents:  Jason & Allyson

 

December 16, 2011

Before we met Kathryn, I knew having a doula would be a positive step since I had always been frightened to give birth. In addition, being new residents of the Fresno area, we did not have many family members or friends nearby to depend on. During our first meeting, Jason and I knew Kathryn would be a great doula to assist during this first birth. She had a calm presence and a wealth of knowledge which was just what we were looking for in a doula. Even after our first meeting I felt less intimidated by birth and knew she would be there to help us in any way.
From answering questions to borrowing birth books from her vast library, Kathryn has been there for us. During our subsequent prenatal visits, she answered more questions, helped us prepare our birth plan, and eased my fears of having a hospital birth. She also made sure Jason felt involved.
Once I started to feel what I thought was false labor contractions on the evening of November 5th, I called Kathryn to assess my condition. She could tell just from my voice and description that this was the real thing and that the baby was coming. In the morning my water broke, so Jason and I headed to the hospital. Kathryn showed up about a little while later with her bag of goodies. I had always intended to use all of her bag of tricks but for some reason I did not want anyone to touch me. While I labored she talked to us I about all sorts of things from our families to our jobs. She knew where to get ice, fresh water and what to do when a machine in the room beeped. It was like having my mom there, but different. This part of the birth was calm and relaxed even with no pain medication!
Once I was fully dilated, the real work came. I had no idea how to push or how to fully let go and deliver the baby. I was scared, tired and did not think I could finish the job. Kathryn gave me encouragement and coached me through the delivery stage. I believe it was by Kathryn’s lead that my husband gained confidence to help me through the pushing. At 5:27 pm on Nov. 6th, almost 24 hours since the contractions started, I gave birth to Clara Elizabeth Smith, a healthy 7lbs 12oz girl. Kathryn helped her latch within an hour of birth, and since then Clara and I have been successful breastfeeding couple. During the postpartum visit, we enjoyed the discussion from Kathryn’s chronicle of the birth. This was something we will appreciate forever and has been an important part in my mental recovery.
As I look back on these events, Kathryn was an essential part of our first birth experience. She answered our questions and calmed our fears. She gave me confidence to get through the final stages of labor. From the prenatal visits (she even taught us how to swaddle and give baby a bath), labor, and postpartum visit, we learned so much from her and had a truly positive birth experience. I now consider Kathryn DiPalma my guardian angel of birth.
Allyson Smith

Silas Robert Garcia
Born: Nov. 23, 2011
8 lbs 10 oz
Proud Parents:  Tim & Noelle Garcia

 

Georgia Joan Copley-Leonhard
Nov. 29, 2011
8 lbs 5 oz
Proud Parents:  Susan Copley & Andre Leonhardt

Audrina Carissa
Dec. 6, 2011 at 6:42 am
7 lbs 4 oz
Proud parents:  Anna & Floyd Cruz

 

Lucas Aaron
Dec. 6, 2011 at 10:33 am
6 lbs 7 oz
Proud Parents:  Charles & Steph May

I found Kathryn on the DONA website, and after we had our first phone conversation, I knew I wanted her to be my doula. She showed support and concern from the beginning, which was important to me since my husband and I were living in the southern California at the time. Kathryn sent emails checking in on us during our planning/moving phase to the central valley. When we finally met in person, she proved to be an amazing woman in person ~~ caring, responsive, and passionate about her job.

On the day that I went into labor, Kathryn was at another birth. She rushed to our hospital soon after we arrived, and since I was already 8cm dilated(!!) I don’t remember much other than, the support that she and my husband provided were essential to me giving birth naturally, with no pain medication! A week after delivery, she visited us in our home and among other things, gave me with a timeline of events she’d written down during my labor. This was especially meaningful because it’s a time I’ll never get back and one I want to remember positively.

Kathryn is a superwoman in my book, an Auntie to our son, and we are so thankful for her presence during the birth of our first baby!

 Beau Joseph Bishop
Jan. 4, 2012 at 6:38 pm
7 lbs 3 oz
Proud Parents:  Jillian & Brett Bishop

Anton Joaquin Garcia
Jan 5, 2012 at 3:55 pm
8 lbs 6 oz
Proud Family:  Carole, Fausto & Eden Garcia

Kathryn is an amazing doula! Upon meeting her, I instantly felt comfortable with her as if I was talking to a favorite aunt. I knew right away she was the doula I wanted to use for my second pregnancy and birth. I respect and greatly appreciate that Kathryn never imposed her views on me regarding what is right or wrong for a birth experience. She always listened to me, asked questions, and followed my lead. Kathryn’s calm, composed manner was a huge asset during labor when she helped me to use visualization and breathing techniques. With her help, I was able to acheive the birth I wanted. My only regret is that I did not have Kathryn at the birth of my first child!

 

Ethan Michael Peerson
Feb. 7, 2012 at 2:02 pm
4 lbs 15 oz.
Proud Parents:  Rebecca & Mike

Kathryn DiPalma is without a doubt an angel on earth. I contacted Kathryn towards the end of my very difficult pregnancy. I had gone into pre-term labor with my second son at 26 weeks and was placed on bedrest, by 27.5 weeks I was placed on strict hospital bedrest due to IC and early labor ( I was 4cm/80%/-1) before 28 weeks. I remained on hospital bedrest until I delivered at 32.6. I was referred to Kathryn by my close friend who knew Kathryn through family, My very first contact with Kathryn was a mere week before I ended up delivering, but at the time we did not know that. Throughout my pregnancy I had considered a doula but wasn’t sure if it was “for me” since I intended to have a medicated birth. As my difficult pregnancy progressed I felt I needed the experience and comfort that a doula could provide, not only to me but to my birth partner as well. From the moment I met Kathryn she was like a second mom to me and a life-saver. We had a face-to-face meeting and a week later I was calling her at 530am to PLEASE come to the hospital to help me with my delivery. The entire time Kathryn was focused on me, my birth partner and our son. She was there to keep me calm when I needed her, she ensured I had everything I needed at all times, she was a strong voice when I didnt have my own to use and most of all was a beacon of peace in a chaotic situation. My delivery went perfectly and I truly believe that alot of that had to do with Kathryn. There is no doubt in my mind that if ANYONE asked me about a doula I would and will say “USE KATHRYN”. I can’t explain in words the peace she provided both myself and my birth partner and she will FOREVER be in our hearts and a huge part of my son’s birthday. She is family and will always remain that way.

Eowyn Rose Bonilla
Feb. 28, 2012 at 11:15 am
8 pounds 10 oz
Proud Parents:  Manuel & Cheslea

 

 

We found Kathryn through her amazing newborn class which was listed on her website. Upon meeting her we immediately knew we wanted her to be a part of our birth. Her expertise was invaluable to us throughout the entire journey. Before Eowyn’s birth she assisted in creating our birthplan. In addition, her daily emails were informative, answering the hundreds of questions running through my mind, as well as offering much needed encouragement. We could not be happier with the way Eowyn’s bIrth went due to her support and knowledge. Her calming influence and ability to reframe doctor-jargon helped put our minds at ease. Looking back, I am not sure I would have been able to accomplish my all-natural birth without a doula there to support me. I highly reccommend Kathryn to assist with your precious birth!

Elena Gillian Mae Baltazar
April 2, 2012  at 2:23 am
6 lbs 10 oz
Proud Family:  Christina, Frank & Joseph

Having Kathryn as my doula was great. When I first met her I knew she would be the motherly type that I would need to prepare myself for the birth of my daughter. My previous birth experience, in which I did not have a doula, proved to have left some emotional scars. Working with Kathryn helped me identify some of the issues I needed to overcome and discuss with my husband to also prepare him for the birth. Before the birth, both of us felt much more prepared than we did for the birth of our son.

From the time I knew I was in labor until we decided she was really needed in the delivery room, my husband and/or I were in constant contact with Kathryn via text as we live about 45 minutes from the hospital. Although the birth of our daughter went very quickly and Kathryn was only there for the last 30 minutes or so of labor, I was glad she was there at that time. She helped me to concentrate and get through the most difficult time of the entire experience. Kathryn stayed during my recovery and even took some photos during the birth an immediately following that i willcherish forever. I highly recommend Kathryn as a doula. If we decide to have more children I will definitely be hiring Kathryn again.

Juliana Nicole McQuaid
April 14, 2012 at 1:36 am
6 lbs 5 oz
Proud Parents:  Nicole & Jim

Yuuna Hata Anguiano
May 1, 2012  at 8:51 am
7 lbs 12 oz
Proud Parents:  Mayumi Hata & Francisco Anguiana