"Birthwork isn’t just what I do; it is who I am—rooted in love, advocacy, and a commitment to the well-being of others."

— Lorna Leverette, AAIMM Doula 

What does being a doula mean to you? 

Being a doula, to me, means being ready  not only to prepare but uplift a family up during the ups and downs of pregnancy, birth and postpartum. (It’s about) connecting with families on a level that medical professionals lack, understanding their unique needs, and empowering them to feel confident and supported. The core of my role is to ensure I provide knowledge, comfort, and emotional strength.

One reason a family should consider having a doula:

One reason families should consider having a doula is to receive support not only during the good moments, but also the tough times .

Please share a story of one of your most memorable experiences as a doula.

One of my most memorable moments as a doula was with a client during her third pregnancy. It was an incredibly fast-paced birth at a birth center, and the energy in the room was charged with anticipation. The labor had progressed quickly, and before we knew it, my client was in the birth tub. She didn't want to sit down because the pressure was so intense, and I could feel the weight of her need for support. I could tell she was pushing through it with everything she had. In that moment, I just hugged her while she was still standing in the tub, offering a sense of grounding. I whispered to her, ‘You’ve prayed for this moment, you're doing it. You’ve got this.’ She squeezed me tightly, as if the words gave her the strength to let go, and with one final, powerful push, her baby was born. And in a beautiful moment of connection, dad caught their baby, his hands steady and full of love as he lifted their newborn into the world. It was such an intimate, raw moment of strength and trust. I felt so honored to be there, witnessing the incredible power of birth and the beautiful bond between parents welcoming their child

What’s the most powerful or meaningful part of being a doula for you?

The powerful and meaningful  part(of being a doula), is when the birthing person, their partners, and families say, "I couldn't have done this without you."

What’s one game-changing way a doula can support a family during birth and beyond?

Teaching their partner or family how to support them during labor is a huge game changer. It gives everyone the knowledge to "know what to do".

What's one unforgettable moment from your journey as a doula that still sticks with you today?

Manifesting full time birth work four years ago and actually being able to attain it with a great team!

ABOUT LORNA:

Lorna Leverette is a proud mother, devoted doula, and partner who is deeply passionate about supporting Black families and making a meaningful impact in the birthwork community. For the past six years, birthwork has been at the core of Lorna’s life  purpose, allowing her  to witness and guide families through one of life’s most profound experiences. Lorna  dedicated herself to community outreach and to working alongside a talented and empowering team of Black doulas. This collaboration has been a constant source of encouragement, inspiration, and strength “Together, we uplift and support families, fostering a sense of community and belonging.”.