The birth of a doula.

I believe my birthing journey as a doula actually began a long time ago, when in my own infant days I would receive comfort from my mother's skin as I lay suckling at her breast, listening to the sound of her heart beat as she held my swaddled body in her arms. I have early memories of my mother's nurturing touch as she would gently lay cool clothes across my feverish brow. My mother would always know what I needed before I did. She had a quiet presence about her and I always knew she was close by.

I was also fortunate to have the camaraderie of sisterhood which has been ever present in my life. Memories of early morning giggles to late night story telling are still etched in my mind. My sisters taught me how to listen, how to advocate and how to believe in myself. The wonderment of their friendship still brings tears of happiness trickling down my cheeks.

The birth of my two younger brothers was another major milestone in my birthing journey. I was old enough to truly appreciate the miracle of life, to experience the joy of holding a newborn in my arms, and to also experience the patience needed to comfort the cries of a little one. I loved my baby brothers.

In my youth I took care of many other families' children. Most of those children had wonderful loving mothers and fathers. However, one family was not so lucky and I learned early in life that there are women and children out there who need someone to listen to them and give them support so they can become stronger and more able to cope.

Some of my most amazing memories in my journey would be the birth of my own children. So many memories of moments spent cuddling, rocking, holding tiny hands as they took their first steps. I remember long walks in the park, consoling their cries, playing peek-a-boo games, first days at school, first dates, first cars and still so many more firsts to come.

Another powerful memory was that of three women in a postpartum ward: one a young teen mother, one a Polish immigrant woman who spoke no English and one a middle aged first time mother. Each of them reached out to me, not with their arms, but with their eyes and their tears. They were looking for guidance, reassurance and knowledge. They were looking for someone who cared.

My journey has had many twists and turns and just like in the birth of a baby, once it gets past that turn in the birth canal, so too could I complete my journey that had been set in motion the day I was born. Those turns would include the death of a very precious baby girl and the passing of my father who had mentored me through life. He taught me about family values and showed me that it is always far more rewarding to give than to receive in life. It was during this time of losses in my journey that my spirituality was born. I thank God daily for the strength He gives me and for the guardian angels that He has blessed me with that help guide me in my journey.

My birth as a doula has been an incredibly awesome journey. I am so grateful that this was the path that was chosen for me to take on the day I was born. As long as there are arms reaching out to me, I will be reaching back.

Jill Ritchie is an ALACE certified labor assistant who lives in London, Ontario with her husband and three children.