Becoming a parent is a transformative journey, one that reshapes our perspectives, challenges our assumptions, and deepens our understanding of the human experience. My own journey into parenthood took an unexpected turn, as I embarked on the path of supporting families as a doula before I became a parent myself.

As a doula, I thought I understood what parenting would be like. I had supported countless families through the joys and challenges of childbirth, offering guidance, encouragement, and unwavering support every step of the way. But nothing could have prepared me for the reality of parenthood until I experienced it firsthand.

The sleepless nights, the endless diaper changes, the moments of overwhelming love and exhaustion—I had heard about these things, read about them, and even witnessed them in my work as a doula. But experiencing them as a parent was an entirely different story.

In those early days of parenthood, I found myself facing challenges I never could have imagined. From grappling with breastfeeding difficulties to navigating the emotional rollercoaster of postpartum hormones, I felt like I was constantly on the verge of falling apart. But amidst the chaos and uncertainty, I discovered a strength and resilience I never knew I possessed.

As I weathered the storms of early parenthood alongside my partner, I found myself drawing on the lessons I had learned as a doula. I leaned into the power of presence, offering myself grace and compassion during moments of struggle and self-doubt. I embraced the importance of community, reaching out to fellow parents for support and solidarity. And I recognized the value of seeking guidance and expertise when needed, whether it was from trusted professionals or from within myself.

Today, as I reflect on my journey from doula to parent and back again, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences that have shaped me into the parent and the professional I am today. Every challenge, every triumph, and every moment of growth has been a lesson in empathy, resilience, and the incredible capacity of the human spirit.

As I continue to support families on their own parenthood journeys, I do so with a newfound understanding and appreciation for the challenges they face. Because parenthood is not just a destination—it's a journey, and one that is best traveled with a guide who has walked the path before. And as a doula and a parent, I am honored to be that guide for families as they navigate the beautiful, challenging, and infinitely rewarding journey of parenthood.