hero-meet-the-team

The Hearts and Hands Behind Our Services

At The Green Stork, we are a team of dedicated professionals passionate about empowering families through the transformative journey of birth. We believe in providing personalized, holistic care that honors your unique needs and supports you every step of the way.

Stephanie Holthus, CPM, LM, CLC, CST

Stephanie is the heart and soul of The Green Stork. As a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) and Licensed Midwife (LM), she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to every birth. Her journey into midwifery was deeply personal, inspired by her own experiences with motherhood and a desire to provide women with empowering birth options. Stephanie's dedication extends beyond midwifery, holding certifications as a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) and Craniosacral Therapist (CST), allowing her to offer comprehensive care to mothers and babies. Her passion for natural birth and holistic wellness shines through in her compassionate approach.

Becca Van Dyke, Doula

Becca is a dedicated and nurturing doula, whose passion for birth work stems from a deep admiration for the miracle of life. Her calm and reassuring presence provides invaluable support to families during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Becca understands the importance of emotional and physical support during this transformative time, and she is committed to helping women achieve a positive and empowering birth experience. Her experience working at the local pregnancy center also gives her a unique insight into the needs of new mothers.

Our Shared Commitment

doula-home-birth
We are honored to be a part of your journey

We are united in our commitment to providing exceptional care that is both evidence-based and deeply compassionate. We believe in the power of informed choice and are dedicated to empowering families to have the birth experience they desire.

@greenstorkmn
  • The Green Stork is proudly sponsoring a summer sand volleyball team in Bemidji — and the name is almost too good...
💥 Push It Real Good 💥
Midwife Stephanie is leading the charge both on and off the court — catching babies by day and crushing serves by night. She brings the same energy to the net as she does to any birth room: calm, focused, and totally unstoppable. 💚👶
🍼✨ Rumor has it, the babies must be in on it too — they’ve (miraculously) avoided being born on Wednesdays, just so Steph doesn’t miss her games. Talk about team spirit from the womb! 😂
Follow our journey as we bump, set, and birth our way through the summer season. Let’s go, Push It Real Good! 💪💚 2-0 for the season so far.
#PushItRealGood #TheGreenStork #MidwifeLife #GreenStorkMn #GameDayGlow #BumpSetBirth #WednesdayMiracles #BirthInBemidji #homebirth
  • 🚨 NRP 8th Edition Training – Hands-On & Interactive! 🚨Join us for a dynamic, hands-on Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) class using the 8th Edition guidelines! This interactive training will cover:✅ Controversial topics & site-specific considerations
✅ A comprehensive review of the NRP textbook
✅ Hands-on resuscitation practice until proficiency is achieved📌 Requirements: The ADVANCED online exam with RQI Partners must be completed prior to training.💰 Cost: $250-$275 (final price depends on registration numbers)
🔹 Deposit: $50 required to secure your spot
📍 Limited space – first come, first served! A waiting list will be available.📧 Register today! Email Stephanie at greenstorkmn@gmail.com for full details and to sign up.#NRPTraining #NeonatalResuscitation #HandsOnLearning #BirthProfessionals #GreenStorkMN #HomeBirthPractice #BemidjiMN #UpNorthBirth
  • 🌿Homebirth slots are filling up faster than we expected!🍃 As a solo midwifery practice, I take a limited number of clients to ensure personalized, heartfelt care for each family. If you're dreaming of a homebirth, now's the time to act-call soon to schedule an interview and secure your due date.💚
We're now accepting February due dates!
📧Reach out today: greenstorkmn.com
#Homebirth #Midwifery #TheGreenStork
#MinnesotaBirth #BemidjiMN #BemidjiMidwife #GreenstorkMN #BirthYourWay #Waterbirth
  • 🌿Testimony Tuesday with The Green Stork 🌿
As a midwife and Craniosacral therapist, I’ve seen the gentle power of Craniosacral therapy work wonders, and today I’m sharing a heartwarming story from one of my clients. 💖
I worked with a mama at 37 weeks whose baby was persistently breech. She was feeling anxious about the possibility of a C-section and wanted to try everything to help her baby flip. We did one session of gentle Craniosacral, focusing on releasing tension in her pelvis and creating space for baby to move. By connecting with her body’s natural rhythms and supporting her nervous system, we helped create a calm environment for her little one.
The next day,  she messaged me overjoyed—her baby had flipped head-down, confirmed by ultrasound! 🙌 She went on to have a smooth, natural birth, just as she’d hoped.
Craniosacral therapy is such a beautiful, non-invasive way to support mamas and babies through pregnancy challenges. I’m so grateful to assist in these moments of connection and transformation. Have you or someone you know tried Craniosacral therapy? I’d love to hear your stories! 💬
#TestimonyTuesday #CraniosacralTherapy #BreechBaby #NaturalBirth #TheGreenStork #midwifery #DoulaWork #BemidjiMN #GreenStorkMN
  • How many birth pools do you think will fit in the office waiting room?#newcolors #midwifelife #itsbeentakenover #GreenStorkMN #Homebirth #Waterbirth #BemidjiMN #BirthYourWay
  • 🚨 NRP 8th Edition Training – Hands-On & Interactive! 🚨Join us for a dynamic, hands-on Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) class using the 8th Edition guidelines! This interactive training will cover:✅ Controversial topics & site-specific considerations
✅ A comprehensive review of the NRP textbook
✅ Hands-on resuscitation practice until proficiency is achieved📌 Requirements: The ADVANCED online exam with RQI Partners must be completed prior to training.💰 Cost: $250-$275 (final price depends on registration numbers)
🔹 Deposit: $50 required to secure your spot
📍 Limited space – first come, first served! A waiting list will be available.📧 Register today! Email Stephanie at greenstorkmn@gmail.com for full details and to sign up.#NRPTraining #NeonatalResuscitation #HandsOnLearning #BirthProfessionals #GreenStorkMN #HomeBirthPractice #BemidjiMN #UpNorthBirth
  • To all mothers—new, seasoned, and those who carry their babies in their hearts—your love shapes the world. 💖 Your strength, whether in joyful moments or through profound loss, is a testament to the divine. 🌿✨“Her children arise and call her blessed.” 🙏 Today, we honor you. With so much love, from the whole Green Stork team. 🕊️💚#Midwifery #Motherhood #GreenStorkMidwifery #MothersLove #HonoringMoms #StrengthAndLove #BlessedMothers #MaternalCare #HeartOfAMother #GreenStorkMN #Doula #CLC #CST #BemidjiMN #NorthernMNmidwife
  • We’ve seen multiple clients this week with ear concerns for their little ones.  Did you know that craniosacral therapy (CST) can help with ear infections by bringing balance to the facia, improving eustachian tube function, promoting better drainage, and reducing blockages that cause pain and inflammation. We do this by gently balancing the fascia, cranial, and jaw.  CST eases strain on the tube, helping mucus and debris flow out of the middle ear. This natural approach may also support immune health and reduce chronic issues like hearing difficulties or speech delays. CST is a holistic way to alleviate ear discomfort! https://www.massagemag.com/alleviating-ear-infections-through-craniosacral-therapy-7673/#EarInfections #CraniosacralTherapy #NaturalHealing #TheGreenStork #CST #BemidjiMN #WholisticHealth #GreenStorkmn
  • We're growing our homebirth midwifery practice and are now looking for dedicated Birth Assistants to join our team. If you're passionate about supporting natural birth, have a strong commitment to compassionate care, and want to be part of a community that honors faith and family, we’d love to hear from you!Requirements: NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation) & CPR certified — or willing to become certified (we offer guidance and resources to support your certification process).💛 Calm, confident, and supportive presence at births
🏡Flexible availability, especially nights/weekends
🚗 Reliable transportation for attending homebirths across northern Minnesota
🤝Collaborative mindset and strong communication skills
🌱 Open to learning and ready to contribute to a nurturing and supportive environment.Whether you’re a student midwife, doula, nurse, or simply called to serve in birth work,- we’d love to hear from you!Ready to grow with us and support our mission?📩Send your resume or reach out to stephanie@greenstorkmn.com to apply or learn more. This role is a beautiful fit for those who feel called to make a meaningful impact on birth experiences, while honoring the sacredness of each family's journey with love, faith, and skilled care. Let’s serve together in a way that truly matters.#NowHiring #BirthAssistant #HomebirthMidwife #NorthernMinnesota #NaturalBirth #MidwiferyTeam #MidwifeLife #GreenStorkMN #TGSTEAM #Homebirth
The Green Stork is proudly sponsoring a summer sand volleyball team in Bemidji — and the name is almost too good...
💥 Push It Real Good 💥
Midwife Stephanie is leading the charge both on and off the court — catching babies by day and crushing serves by night. She brings the same energy to the net as she does to any birth room: calm, focused, and totally unstoppable. 💚👶
🍼✨ Rumor has it, the babies must be in on it too — they’ve (miraculously) avoided being born on Wednesdays, just so Steph doesn’t miss her games. Talk about team spirit from the womb! 😂
Follow our journey as we bump, set, and birth our way through the summer season. Let’s go, Push It Real Good! 💪💚 2-0 for the season so far.
#PushItRealGood #TheGreenStork #MidwifeLife #GreenStorkMn #GameDayGlow #BumpSetBirth #WednesdayMiracles #BirthInBemidji #homebirth
The Green Stork is proudly sponsoring a summer sand volleyball team in Bemidji — and the name is almost too good...
💥 Push It Real Good 💥 Midwife Stephanie is leading the charge both on and off the court — catching babies by day and crushing serves by night. She brings the same energy to the net as she does to any birth room: calm, focused, and totally unstoppable. 💚👶 🍼✨ Rumor has it, the babies must be in on it too — they’ve (miraculously) avoided being born on Wednesdays, just so Steph doesn’t miss her games. Talk about team spirit from the womb! 😂 Follow our journey as we bump, set, and birth our way through the summer season. Let’s go, Push It Real Good! 💪💚 2-0 for the season so far. #PushItRealGood #TheGreenStork #MidwifeLife #GreenStorkMn #GameDayGlow #BumpSetBirth #WednesdayMiracles #BirthInBemidji #homebirth
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
1/9
🚨 NRP 8th Edition Training – Hands-On & Interactive! 🚨Join us for a dynamic, hands-on Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) class using the 8th Edition guidelines! This interactive training will cover:✅ Controversial topics & site-specific considerations
✅ A comprehensive review of the NRP textbook
✅ Hands-on resuscitation practice until proficiency is achieved📌 Requirements: The ADVANCED online exam with RQI Partners must be completed prior to training.💰 Cost: $250-$275 (final price depends on registration numbers)
🔹 Deposit: $50 required to secure your spot
📍 Limited space – first come, first served! A waiting list will be available.📧 Register today! Email Stephanie at greenstorkmn@gmail.com for full details and to sign up.#NRPTraining #NeonatalResuscitation #HandsOnLearning #BirthProfessionals #GreenStorkMN #HomeBirthPractice #BemidjiMN #UpNorthBirth
🚨 NRP 8th Edition Training – Hands-On & Interactive! 🚨Join us for a dynamic, hands-on Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) class using the 8th Edition guidelines! This interactive training will cover:✅ Controversial topics & site-specific considerations ✅ A comprehensive review of the NRP textbook ✅ Hands-on resuscitation practice until proficiency is achieved📌 Requirements: The ADVANCED online exam with RQI Partners must be completed prior to training.💰 Cost: $250-$275 (final price depends on registration numbers) 🔹 Deposit: $50 required to secure your spot 📍 Limited space – first come, first served! A waiting list will be available.📧 Register today! Email Stephanie at greenstorkmn@gmail.com for full details and to sign up.#NRPTraining #NeonatalResuscitation #HandsOnLearning #BirthProfessionals #GreenStorkMN #HomeBirthPractice #BemidjiMN #UpNorthBirth
1 week ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
🌿Homebirth slots are filling up faster than we expected!🍃 As a solo midwifery practice, I take a limited number of clients to ensure personalized, heartfelt care for each family. If you're dreaming of a homebirth, now's the time to act-call soon to schedule an interview and secure your due date.💚
We're now accepting February due dates!
📧Reach out today: greenstorkmn.com
#Homebirth #Midwifery #TheGreenStork
#MinnesotaBirth #BemidjiMN #BemidjiMidwife #GreenstorkMN #BirthYourWay #Waterbirth
🌿Homebirth slots are filling up faster than we expected!🍃 As a solo midwifery practice, I take a limited number of clients to ensure personalized, heartfelt care for each family. If you're dreaming of a homebirth, now's the time to act-call soon to schedule an interview and secure your due date.💚 We're now accepting February due dates! 📧Reach out today: greenstorkmn.com #Homebirth #Midwifery #TheGreenStork #MinnesotaBirth #BemidjiMN #BemidjiMidwife #GreenstorkMN #BirthYourWay #Waterbirth
3 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
🌿Testimony Tuesday with The Green Stork 🌿
As a midwife and Craniosacral therapist, I’ve seen the gentle power of Craniosacral therapy work wonders, and today I’m sharing a heartwarming story from one of my clients. 💖
I worked with a mama at 37 weeks whose baby was persistently breech. She was feeling anxious about the possibility of a C-section and wanted to try everything to help her baby flip. We did one session of gentle Craniosacral, focusing on releasing tension in her pelvis and creating space for baby to move. By connecting with her body’s natural rhythms and supporting her nervous system, we helped create a calm environment for her little one.
The next day,  she messaged me overjoyed—her baby had flipped head-down, confirmed by ultrasound! 🙌 She went on to have a smooth, natural birth, just as she’d hoped.
Craniosacral therapy is such a beautiful, non-invasive way to support mamas and babies through pregnancy challenges. I’m so grateful to assist in these moments of connection and transformation. Have you or someone you know tried Craniosacral therapy? I’d love to hear your stories! 💬
#TestimonyTuesday #CraniosacralTherapy #BreechBaby #NaturalBirth #TheGreenStork #midwifery #DoulaWork #BemidjiMN #GreenStorkMN
🌿Testimony Tuesday with The Green Stork 🌿 As a midwife and Craniosacral therapist, I’ve seen the gentle power of Craniosacral therapy work wonders, and today I’m sharing a heartwarming story from one of my clients. 💖 I worked with a mama at 37 weeks whose baby was persistently breech. She was feeling anxious about the possibility of a C-section and wanted to try everything to help her baby flip. We did one session of gentle Craniosacral, focusing on releasing tension in her pelvis and creating space for baby to move. By connecting with her body’s natural rhythms and supporting her nervous system, we helped create a calm environment for her little one. The next day, she messaged me overjoyed—her baby had flipped head-down, confirmed by ultrasound! 🙌 She went on to have a smooth, natural birth, just as she’d hoped. Craniosacral therapy is such a beautiful, non-invasive way to support mamas and babies through pregnancy challenges. I’m so grateful to assist in these moments of connection and transformation. Have you or someone you know tried Craniosacral therapy? I’d love to hear your stories! 💬 #TestimonyTuesday #CraniosacralTherapy #BreechBaby #NaturalBirth #TheGreenStork #midwifery #DoulaWork #BemidjiMN #GreenStorkMN
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
How many birth pools do you think will fit in the office waiting room?#newcolors #midwifelife #itsbeentakenover #GreenStorkMN #Homebirth #Waterbirth #BemidjiMN #BirthYourWay
How many birth pools do you think will fit in the office waiting room?#newcolors #midwifelife #itsbeentakenover #GreenStorkMN #Homebirth #Waterbirth #BemidjiMN #BirthYourWay
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
🚨 NRP 8th Edition Training – Hands-On & Interactive! 🚨Join us for a dynamic, hands-on Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) class using the 8th Edition guidelines! This interactive training will cover:✅ Controversial topics & site-specific considerations
✅ A comprehensive review of the NRP textbook
✅ Hands-on resuscitation practice until proficiency is achieved📌 Requirements: The ADVANCED online exam with RQI Partners must be completed prior to training.💰 Cost: $250-$275 (final price depends on registration numbers)
🔹 Deposit: $50 required to secure your spot
📍 Limited space – first come, first served! A waiting list will be available.📧 Register today! Email Stephanie at greenstorkmn@gmail.com for full details and to sign up.#NRPTraining #NeonatalResuscitation #HandsOnLearning #BirthProfessionals #GreenStorkMN #HomeBirthPractice #BemidjiMN #UpNorthBirth
🚨 NRP 8th Edition Training – Hands-On & Interactive! 🚨Join us for a dynamic, hands-on Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) class using the 8th Edition guidelines! This interactive training will cover:✅ Controversial topics & site-specific considerations ✅ A comprehensive review of the NRP textbook ✅ Hands-on resuscitation practice until proficiency is achieved📌 Requirements: The ADVANCED online exam with RQI Partners must be completed prior to training.💰 Cost: $250-$275 (final price depends on registration numbers) 🔹 Deposit: $50 required to secure your spot 📍 Limited space – first come, first served! A waiting list will be available.📧 Register today! Email Stephanie at greenstorkmn@gmail.com for full details and to sign up.#NRPTraining #NeonatalResuscitation #HandsOnLearning #BirthProfessionals #GreenStorkMN #HomeBirthPractice #BemidjiMN #UpNorthBirth
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
To all mothers—new, seasoned, and those who carry their babies in their hearts—your love shapes the world. 💖 Your strength, whether in joyful moments or through profound loss, is a testament to the divine. 🌿✨“Her children arise and call her blessed.” 🙏 Today, we honor you. With so much love, from the whole Green Stork team. 🕊️💚#Midwifery #Motherhood #GreenStorkMidwifery #MothersLove #HonoringMoms #StrengthAndLove #BlessedMothers #MaternalCare #HeartOfAMother #GreenStorkMN #Doula #CLC #CST #BemidjiMN #NorthernMNmidwife
To all mothers—new, seasoned, and those who carry their babies in their hearts—your love shapes the world. 💖 Your strength, whether in joyful moments or through profound loss, is a testament to the divine. 🌿✨“Her children arise and call her blessed.” 🙏 Today, we honor you. With so much love, from the whole Green Stork team. 🕊️💚#Midwifery #Motherhood #GreenStorkMidwifery #MothersLove #HonoringMoms #StrengthAndLove #BlessedMothers #MaternalCare #HeartOfAMother #GreenStorkMN #Doula #CLC #CST #BemidjiMN #NorthernMNmidwife
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
We’ve seen multiple clients this week with ear concerns for their little ones.  Did you know that craniosacral therapy (CST) can help with ear infections by bringing balance to the facia, improving eustachian tube function, promoting better drainage, and reducing blockages that cause pain and inflammation. We do this by gently balancing the fascia, cranial, and jaw.  CST eases strain on the tube, helping mucus and debris flow out of the middle ear. This natural approach may also support immune health and reduce chronic issues like hearing difficulties or speech delays. CST is a holistic way to alleviate ear discomfort! https://www.massagemag.com/alleviating-ear-infections-through-craniosacral-therapy-7673/#EarInfections #CraniosacralTherapy #NaturalHealing #TheGreenStork #CST #BemidjiMN #WholisticHealth #GreenStorkmn
We’ve seen multiple clients this week with ear concerns for their little ones. Did you know that craniosacral therapy (CST) can help with ear infections by bringing balance to the facia, improving eustachian tube function, promoting better drainage, and reducing blockages that cause pain and inflammation. We do this by gently balancing the fascia, cranial, and jaw. CST eases strain on the tube, helping mucus and debris flow out of the middle ear. This natural approach may also support immune health and reduce chronic issues like hearing difficulties or speech delays. CST is a holistic way to alleviate ear discomfort! https://www.massagemag.com/alleviating-ear-infections-through-craniosacral-therapy-7673/#EarInfections #CraniosacralTherapy #NaturalHealing #TheGreenStork #CST #BemidjiMN #WholisticHealth #GreenStorkmn
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
We're growing our homebirth midwifery practice and are now looking for dedicated Birth Assistants to join our team. If you're passionate about supporting natural birth, have a strong commitment to compassionate care, and want to be part of a community that honors faith and family, we’d love to hear from you!Requirements: NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation) & CPR certified — or willing to become certified (we offer guidance and resources to support your certification process).💛 Calm, confident, and supportive presence at births
🏡Flexible availability, especially nights/weekends
🚗 Reliable transportation for attending homebirths across northern Minnesota
🤝Collaborative mindset and strong communication skills
🌱 Open to learning and ready to contribute to a nurturing and supportive environment.Whether you’re a student midwife, doula, nurse, or simply called to serve in birth work,- we’d love to hear from you!Ready to grow with us and support our mission?📩Send your resume or reach out to stephanie@greenstorkmn.com to apply or learn more. This role is a beautiful fit for those who feel called to make a meaningful impact on birth experiences, while honoring the sacredness of each family's journey with love, faith, and skilled care. Let’s serve together in a way that truly matters.#NowHiring #BirthAssistant #HomebirthMidwife #NorthernMinnesota #NaturalBirth #MidwiferyTeam #MidwifeLife #GreenStorkMN #TGSTEAM #Homebirth
We're growing our homebirth midwifery practice and are now looking for dedicated Birth Assistants to join our team. If you're passionate about supporting natural birth, have a strong commitment to compassionate care, and want to be part of a community that honors faith and family, we’d love to hear from you!Requirements: NRP (Neonatal Resuscitation) & CPR certified — or willing to become certified (we offer guidance and resources to support your certification process).💛 Calm, confident, and supportive presence at births 🏡Flexible availability, especially nights/weekends 🚗 Reliable transportation for attending homebirths across northern Minnesota 🤝Collaborative mindset and strong communication skills 🌱 Open to learning and ready to contribute to a nurturing and supportive environment.Whether you’re a student midwife, doula, nurse, or simply called to serve in birth work,- we’d love to hear from you!Ready to grow with us and support our mission?📩Send your resume or reach out to stephanie@greenstorkmn.com to apply or learn more. This role is a beautiful fit for those who feel called to make a meaningful impact on birth experiences, while honoring the sacredness of each family's journey with love, faith, and skilled care. Let’s serve together in a way that truly matters.#NowHiring #BirthAssistant #HomebirthMidwife #NorthernMinnesota #NaturalBirth #MidwiferyTeam #MidwifeLife #GreenStorkMN #TGSTEAM #Homebirth
2 months ago
View on Instagram |
9/9

Real Stories, Real Joy

“My husband and I welcomed our second child in October 2018. Becca was our Doula and our experience was wonderful! Before the birth she met with us to prepare- getting to know us and our preferences for labor/birth, etc. She was very professional, yet personable, and you could tell she is very passionate about what she does – being that extra line of support and knowledge for expecting Mothers (and Dads, too!).

During labor, it was so encouraging to to have her with us, giving me gentle reminders to breathe naturally, massage, getting what we needed when we needed it- ASAP (including hospital staff, if they left the room).

My husband felt more confident with her helping us, because he could better focus on me – helping me moment to moment with each contraction. Becca was able work together with him during contractions while still keeping an eye on the bigger picture – where we were in the process and how things were going overall.

In the recovery room, my nurse told me she had a positive and encouraging experience working with Becca. The way she described it conveyed that she appreciated Becca’s attitude of working together with the hospital staff as a team for the same purpose – healthy mom, healthy baby, and a positive birth experience.”

Sheila Ewert

"My wife deeply appreciated the caring and personal service that Steph provided for our growing family. I have been through childbirth five times with my wife, two of them home births, and I have seen a range of personalities among the doulas, midwives, nurses, and doctors who have helped us. Steph is simply extraordinary. She took the time to get to know us, she provided the support we desired, but she also knew when to withdraw into the sidelines and let my wife’s labor take its natural course.

As a husband, I wanted to be as hands on as possible, but the fact of the matter is that one person can only do so much. I would recommend to other husbands that money spent on a doula is well spent, since it always helps to have another set of hands to refill a water bottle or massage a laboring mother’s back or handle any of the thousand other little things that come up along the way. Steph did all of these things and more, always with a sense of calm and gentle encouragement."

Ryan MacPherson (2015)

"My wife and I welcomed our first baby, Graham, into this world with the help of Becca. We could not have been happier with the comfort and support that Becca provided both of us throughout the process. Becca is professional and passionate about her work, and we were amazed at her level of commitment to us throughout a long and stressful labor. Both of us highly recommend Becca, and we’ll surely have her with us for round 2 whenever that may be!”

Dan Ryan

“…As all parents know, life doesn’t happen how we think it may. Babies are full of many surprises and have their own schedule. After an amazingly smooth pregnancy, Alicia went into labor 6 weeks early. We were in disbelief and shocked, this couldn’t’ be happening. Steph was the first person I called. She advised us to head to the hospital and kept in contact along the way. After realizing the labor was not slowing down, the doctors decided it would be best to transport Alicia to Rochester. Again we were in disbelief and struggled with the fact that Alicia would be laboring in the ambulance alone, while I rushed home to grab a few things and then drive to Rochester. But again, Steph was there. She reassured me that our birth story would still be beautiful and that Rochester is an amazing place to give birth. She offered to drive and meet us in Rochester to continue leading us through our birth journey.

She not only met us there, she lead me down the highway, into town, to the parking ramp and up to Alicia’s room. In this midst of all the unknowns, worries and fear, Steph was there to put us at ease.

She was an incredible coach through labor and helped Alicia to reach her goal of having an all natural birth. She also made sure I was taken care of with food and hydration throughout the morning. Steph did a wonderful job of photographing of our birth story as well. The memories she captured will be cherished forever.

Looking back, I can’t imagine our birth story without Steph.

From the early days of learning techniques in her class, to capturing our first family photos, Steph made our birth story an amazing experience. She is living her passion and we are eternally grateful she is our Doula.” 

Dan & Alicia W.