Here's a little information about myself:
I have been involved with homebirth since 1987, when I began doing postpartum care for my midwife’s clients and then I began an apprenticeship with her in 1990.
I am a certified midwife, trained through that apprenticeship, which took me 4 1/2 years to accomplish. I have been married since 1981 and we have 3 grown children, 2 of which were born with the help of midwives, the last one born at home. We also have two grandchildren, born at home, into my hands, which was a very special experience!
I am an active member of the Michigan Midwives Association (currently the Vice President) and a member of the Midwives Alliance of North America and Christian Midwives International.
I do prenatal care visits in an office in my home, in mid-Michigan, and with the help of associate midwives and apprentices, I do home births and postpartum care in a 12 county area around my home, which is in Osceola County. I am also available for breastfeeding consultations and hospital labor support.
I do waterbirths, for those who desire one, and I also bring a deby birth stool to every birth. Its nice to have a few options for birthing. Information on renting or buying a pool for birthing in is given at the initial visit.
Most people come for an initial visit without first deciding to hire me or have a homebirth. That way, they can take their time, gathering more information (I give an info packet at the free initial visit) and discussing this decision together.
Getting supplies for the birth is made simple - I have a birthing supply company that the birth kit comes from and the client orders it and it comes UPS to their home.
We also do Newborn Screening (sometime referred to the PKU test) for those who would like their baby tested. There's no need to have to leave your home and make a trip to the hospital or health department for this testing.
I love helping women during this special time in their lives. I believe that by helping women and families have the best possible birth that they can have, it not only strengthens them, but also their communities, and thus society. For me, being a midwife truly feels like a calling from the Lord.
Thank you for visiting this site. Please feel free to email or call me with any questions.
~ Laurie