The Birth of Léo | Vancouver Birth Doula & Photographer

When I first opened up the email from Tasha inquiring about my services and explaining their plan for their baby’s arrival, I got tingles. Something about that first communication told me that this birth was going to be incredible. Tasha and Dustin had done all their research, and were planning to bring their baby into the world at home. They had a very real understanding that birth doesn’t always go according to plan and were ready to make important decisions when necessary. During our prenatal meetings I got to really know Tasha and Dustin, and how connected they really are. Their love is the kind you see in movies. And their home is full of constant reminders about how lucky they are to have one another.

Tasha and Dustin had a village of support surrounding them- message after message, beautiful, thoughtful words came from friends and family all over the globe. For hours the sweet sound of papa’s voice serenaded us all. Tasha and I even did a little duet from Flight of the Conchords (that was not so beautiful) during our sleep deprived state. It was one of the most touching births I have ever been a part of. After over 30 hours of labour they made the decision with their midwife to transfer to hospital- although it was not an easy decision to give up the dream of birthing at home, they did it with incredible grace and positivity. And after another 15 hours of labouring at the hospital (and a little pep talk from papa) their stubborn little man made his final decent into the world and was born into a room full of absolute joy and delight. Every one of us were in awe of Tasha and her power in that moment. She accomplished what most of the hospital staff believed was impossible and she birthed her son all on her own.

Sometimes you meet people and wonder how you never crossed paths before, these are those people for me. I am so proud to call them friends, and honoured that they chose me to support them on this journey. Tasha and Dustin- I can’t wait to recount all of the special moments from Léo’s birth together for years and years to come. And Mr. Léo, I can’t wait to see what you become with these two extraordinary people to guide you in life. Welcome to the world, there is so much love and beauty here, just waiting for you to discover…xx

Make sure you grab a tissue and switch the gear symbol to “quality- HD 1080” for optimal viewing.