Holly & ALlen |
2023
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As first time parents we knew we wanted extra support in navigating pregnancy and birth. We are so grateful to have had Jo as our guide through the whole journey. Jo has a calm and grounding presence and her deep knowledge and wisdom gave us reassurance and confidence in our choices. Jo provided lots of useful resources to help us feel prepared and educated for birth - books, videos and thoughtful answers to our many questions. During my 29-hour labour she outlasted four shifts of midwives and guided me to turn our 4.4kg baby out of a posterior position using spinning babies techniques. I had an empowering and beautiful labour and birth experience and credit so much of that to Jo’s support. Her support continued into those crucial and fragile postpartum days, helping navigate breastfeeding challenges and life with a newborn.
In addition to her one-on-one support, the weekly birth circle she hosts is a safe space for deep connection and community with other pregnant mums. The connections I made via this group gave me a well of strength upon which to draw during my labour. Having Jo as our doula was the best decision my husband and I made in our journey to become a family of three. |
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Etta & Tristen |
2023
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Jo was an incredible presence at my birth, and by far the best investment I've ever made! I had a grueling posterior home birth that lasted 55 hours. It was my first birth so I had no idea what to expect. Having Jo there (and she was there for several days in the end!) was a calming and knowledgeable presence. She supported me and my partner through the ups and downs, reassuring us until the baby was born. Without her it would have turned into an emergency cesarean for sure. We all felt in good hands with Jo in the room, and I would strongly recommend her (or having a doula) for any people planning to give birth.
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Ellen & Brendan |
2023
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I remember the day after my baby’s birth I kept asking myself, ‘what would I have done without Jo?’ Throughout both my pregnancies and labours she was the greatest support. She held space like no other, gave generously of her wisdom and time, and brought calm, comfort and warmth to every visit. She knows when to come close and when to step back, when to touch and when to watch, when to speak and what to say, and guided me like a mother or angel from first visit to new life and beyond. Jo brings a midwife’s wealth of knowledge, a doula’s calm and presence, and her own strength of character and belief in our ability to birth. I will continue to be grateful to her and for her, for the rest of my life.
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You have such a gift - we felt truely held and safe throughout the pregnancy, birth and early newborn haze
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Alice & Richard |
2023
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Thank you for all the wonderful support you gave us to bring Dylan into the world. I know for certain we would not have got the waterbirth we so wanted without your guidance. It has been a privilege to be a party of your mother's circle and also learn from the wisdom of others.
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Carmel & Andrew |
2023
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Having Jo apart of our third birth was the best decision we made. I felt loved, heard and supported throughout my pregnancy and postpartum journey. She is a wealth of knowledge and very well known in the birthing community. Jo would always make sure all my questions were answered and that I was making the best and informed decision that was right for me. Jo has a beautiful and calm nature, we absolutely loved welcoming her into our home during this special time.
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Elizabeth & Percy |
2020
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Jo Askham has a gift. This gift goes far, far beyond what we ever could have imagined would be possible from a doula, or from anyone, really. When Jo became our doula, we had no idea of the immense privilege that this would be, and now count ourselves as so incredibly lucky to have had her in our life.
Jo cocoons you and your partner in love, warmth, expertise and gentle strength. She has an extremely fine-tuned ability to understand innately what it is that you need, and to provide you with exactly that, without ever drawing your attention away from the experience you and your partner are having. She makes you feel utterly safe and cared for in the most unobtrusive way. The only way I can think to describe her attention to detail is that it feels psychic -- that's how attuned to your experience she is. Read More |
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Anne & Matt |
2020
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Jo was a fantastic, grounded, and knowledgeable doula I was lucky enough to find for my second birth. Her guidance helped me to find more confidence in my birthing body, in the comfort and safety of my own home. She helped me manage pain in the ways I chose for myself, and she helped me make my own decisions all the way through. I would highly recommend her pregnancy and birth-related services.
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Patty |
2020
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I initially chose Jo to be my doula as she was so down to earth with alot of knowledge about birthing. I instantly had a positive feeling about her.
During the time leading up to my baby's birth, Jo attended my home and provided a wealth of knowledge, and for a first time Mum I had lots of questions and some nervousness around child birth.
On the day I can say with absolute honesty that Jo was my guardian Angel. She arrived very quickly to the hospital once I contacted her. She helped keep me calm, advocated for me and explained the process and medical jargon of the hospital; took photos, and to my amazement was so in tune to my needs that she fulfilled them before I could even ask. Jo went above and beyond "the job", and was truly as a good friend would be in supporting me (but with all the experience and knowledge thrown in). I would not hesitate to recommend Jo. She was a part of my baby's birth but remains an integral part of my birthing experience and forever in my good memory bank.
During the time leading up to my baby's birth, Jo attended my home and provided a wealth of knowledge, and for a first time Mum I had lots of questions and some nervousness around child birth.
On the day I can say with absolute honesty that Jo was my guardian Angel. She arrived very quickly to the hospital once I contacted her. She helped keep me calm, advocated for me and explained the process and medical jargon of the hospital; took photos, and to my amazement was so in tune to my needs that she fulfilled them before I could even ask. Jo went above and beyond "the job", and was truly as a good friend would be in supporting me (but with all the experience and knowledge thrown in). I would not hesitate to recommend Jo. She was a part of my baby's birth but remains an integral part of my birthing experience and forever in my good memory bank.
Nat & Luke |
2020
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...She is so passionate, patient, super caring and has birth wisdom beyond anything I could have ever read or researched. I could not have gotten through my two pregnancies and subsequent births without her. Her support every step of the way was above and beyond what I had ever anticipated from any birth support person. She educated me when I asked, advocated for me when needed, and empowered me the whole way through my birthing journeys. She truly cares. I cannot highly recommend her enough and I will be forever grateful to her for being a part of my life and journey, and helping me bring my two babies earthside.
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Ellen & Brendan |
2020
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It's been a year and my son is now scooting along furniture and happily gibbering nonsense, but I'll never forget my wonderful birthing experience and Jo's role in it. After my partner and I first met Jo, we discussed how she seemed to possess the perfect combination of strength and gentleness, and that proved to be true.
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Libby & Blake
...You really helped to draw out the strength & stamina that was required for the epic event..
Krista & Adam
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I wanted a doula to help my partner support me through birth, someone who knew what birthing was about, we had no idea and were full of fears being new parents. Jo gave us the confidence to feel empowered about birth. She was so gentle yet voiced her opinion when the doctor wanted to clamp the cord too soon. It was so comforting to know we had an expert on our side.
Forever grateful, Krista, Adam & Lior |
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Jo & Andy
..I don't think I would have some of the confidence that I have as a mother without some of your wisdom..
Emily & ALex
...We truely appreciate everything you did for us & allowing our dream birth to unfold as you did...
Mandy & David |
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I can’t recommend Jo enough the support during birth. As a women who wanted to birth freely at home Jo supported us during the birth and also and sessions before and after.
The before sessions were crucial where we got to talk though the fears, anxieties, plans. Whereas after the women’s space after birth and the support and care for both myself and our little one. Gone are the times where we have the ‘community support’ or ‘village’ therefore I wouldn’t go without a Doula and was so grateful to find Jo she has wisdom and skills to share for you on your journey. She surprised us with a beautiful knitted blanket which was so special and sacred and seeing our little one in it meant so much more than the blanket it was the symbol of support. Mandy and David, Eltham Victoria |
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Jenni & Mark
...We so appreciate your wisdom...
Sarah & Jase w/baby Mali
Dear Jo,
What a special time we have shared. We are so pleased and thankful that you joined with our family to welcome Mali into the world. Your calm and nurturing ways made such a difference, especially in the turbulent time!...
Much love Sarah, Jase & Mali.
What a special time we have shared. We are so pleased and thankful that you joined with our family to welcome Mali into the world. Your calm and nurturing ways made such a difference, especially in the turbulent time!...
Much love Sarah, Jase & Mali.
Beck w/baby Bohdi
Dear Jo,
Thankyou so much for your support, knowledge + wisdom leading up to the birth of Bodhi River. Your presence at the birth was very calming + I feel privelidged to have had such a wonderful support team. I am so happy I was able to experience the joy + empowerment of having a natural birth.
Love Beck, John, Kai + Bodhi ****
Thankyou so much for your support, knowledge + wisdom leading up to the birth of Bodhi River. Your presence at the birth was very calming + I feel privelidged to have had such a wonderful support team. I am so happy I was able to experience the joy + empowerment of having a natural birth.
Love Beck, John, Kai + Bodhi ****
Mel w/baby Charlie
Dear Jo,
We have no idea how to thank you for all your support & encouragement. The best decision we ever made was to include you in our journey. Sorry for the marathon! You certainly went above + beyond what we expected.
Lots of love, Mel, Jed & Charlie
We have no idea how to thank you for all your support & encouragement. The best decision we ever made was to include you in our journey. Sorry for the marathon! You certainly went above + beyond what we expected.
Lots of love, Mel, Jed & Charlie
Julie w/baby Liam
Sadly I found myself 21 weeks pregnant and dealing with the unexpected death of my fiancé and the father of our unborn boy. Jo offered herself as my birthing back-up and from that day forth ensured that I was provided for with emotional support, helpful baby items, birthing resources such as books, meditation CDs and most importantly her availability as time drew closer to labour. Every visit I had at the hospital she offered her presence and I always knew that no matter what the scenario or my emotion - she was my rock and all would be ok.
Jo not only brings with her a bounty of goodies as a doula but she brings a calming, empowering vibe that "held" me in the right space for meeting my son. Although she manages a family of 3 she would swiftly make magic happen around my due date and particularly as I went beyond that time…dealing with the building pressure of an over-due bub who everyone was desperate to meet. I recall her bringing home-cooked energising treats at just the right time or checking in with a positive and re-assuring phone call or SMS. When my son Liam entered the world she was there, "breathing him out" with me and my every contraction, and I will always feel blessed for that experience - at a very raw time in my life when I was also dealing with grief and loss. In hospital she warded off unwanted visitors, came at ungodly hours to check in - just for us… and once we were home she popped in daily as needed - always sensitive to our needs and desires as her priority - never overstaying the welcome and expertly gauging my ups and downs.
Jo is also a wonderful knitter and joined others in creating for us a beautiful baby blanket plus hat and rug for my boy - as part of my local community and circle of friends I have seen her do many - endless acts of kindness, be it for paid clients, people in need or her extended family network. I couldn't recommend her services highly enough - birthing is such a sacred special moment and Jo, being so passionate about her role and with such a warm heart was the best doula I could have possibly had.
Jo not only brings with her a bounty of goodies as a doula but she brings a calming, empowering vibe that "held" me in the right space for meeting my son. Although she manages a family of 3 she would swiftly make magic happen around my due date and particularly as I went beyond that time…dealing with the building pressure of an over-due bub who everyone was desperate to meet. I recall her bringing home-cooked energising treats at just the right time or checking in with a positive and re-assuring phone call or SMS. When my son Liam entered the world she was there, "breathing him out" with me and my every contraction, and I will always feel blessed for that experience - at a very raw time in my life when I was also dealing with grief and loss. In hospital she warded off unwanted visitors, came at ungodly hours to check in - just for us… and once we were home she popped in daily as needed - always sensitive to our needs and desires as her priority - never overstaying the welcome and expertly gauging my ups and downs.
Jo is also a wonderful knitter and joined others in creating for us a beautiful baby blanket plus hat and rug for my boy - as part of my local community and circle of friends I have seen her do many - endless acts of kindness, be it for paid clients, people in need or her extended family network. I couldn't recommend her services highly enough - birthing is such a sacred special moment and Jo, being so passionate about her role and with such a warm heart was the best doula I could have possibly had.
Suzie w/baby Lachlan
Well once again, I am writing you a thank you note, and again I am wondering where to start. You have been such an important part of our wonderful birth of Lachlan. Also, like last time WHAT A RIDE!!! It's been turbulent with the VBAC issue and my mum's passing during this pregnancy and your help has been very needed and very appreciated.
The moment you hopped into the birth pool with me, I felt stronger and less on my own, I guess, and man, you are strong and enduring helping to open my hips with the constant pressure to help my big boy along on his journey to being born. What a relief it was. You are really special and intuitive and essential in your way that you seem to know exactly what to do and when. A quiet ear, a comforting rub, an incredibly strong massage, words of your own experience and so much more.
My birthing of Lachlan was a deeply healing experience that re-connected me in some way with my body after my prior fertility and birthing experiences. I don't think it would have happened without your support. To birth Lachlan at home has profoundly changed and empowered me and I suspect Chris too (he is just relieved it is all over). Well, we did it and that is a happy and successful close to my birthing chapter of my life.
The tears in my eyes as I write this also tells of how momentous this chapter has been and how relieved and grateful it is to have been brave enough in this climate of VBAC pressure to trust my body and birth at home and to have had the perfect support to make my important dream come true. I am so in love with my family and that deep satisfaction is from my birth.
I have run out of writing room and can see now that some more birth writing would be a good idea!!
So thank you Jo...you have inspired me and educated me and showed me another path to birthing. An informed path that doesn't ignore the need for medical intervention in its truest circumstances - not just protocol!
Thanks for supporting Lachlan and Chris while I was in theatre. It was very special to have you there when the stress was high and a calming presence was just perfect.
Love to you xxx
The moment you hopped into the birth pool with me, I felt stronger and less on my own, I guess, and man, you are strong and enduring helping to open my hips with the constant pressure to help my big boy along on his journey to being born. What a relief it was. You are really special and intuitive and essential in your way that you seem to know exactly what to do and when. A quiet ear, a comforting rub, an incredibly strong massage, words of your own experience and so much more.
My birthing of Lachlan was a deeply healing experience that re-connected me in some way with my body after my prior fertility and birthing experiences. I don't think it would have happened without your support. To birth Lachlan at home has profoundly changed and empowered me and I suspect Chris too (he is just relieved it is all over). Well, we did it and that is a happy and successful close to my birthing chapter of my life.
The tears in my eyes as I write this also tells of how momentous this chapter has been and how relieved and grateful it is to have been brave enough in this climate of VBAC pressure to trust my body and birth at home and to have had the perfect support to make my important dream come true. I am so in love with my family and that deep satisfaction is from my birth.
I have run out of writing room and can see now that some more birth writing would be a good idea!!
So thank you Jo...you have inspired me and educated me and showed me another path to birthing. An informed path that doesn't ignore the need for medical intervention in its truest circumstances - not just protocol!
Thanks for supporting Lachlan and Chris while I was in theatre. It was very special to have you there when the stress was high and a calming presence was just perfect.
Love to you xxx
Libby w/baby Magnus
Thank you for your unwavering support. We appreciate all your help throughout the pregnancy and birthing experience. Your passed knowledge has been empowering and extremely welcome. We feel very privileged to have you as part of our little team.
Lots of love, Libby, Blake & Magnus
Lots of love, Libby, Blake & Magnus
Jess w/baby Jaspa
"...Jo attended appointments at the hospital with us throughout the pregnancy and provided much support and encouragement to both myself as the partner and my partner Nelle who was going through the pregnancy. We often relied on Jo's thorough knowledge, instinct and practical support ...When the time came for Nelle to give birth she developed pre-eclampsia and it was decided for the safety of Nelle and our baby that she should have a caesarean. This was a stressful time for us as first time parents and Jo continued to reassure and strengthen us even though this was not our preferred birth outcome..."
Suzanne w/baby Rhys
Dear Jo,
How do you thank someone who has been pivotal in such an empowing and life-changing experience? Well I will sure try because I really want to.
My pregnancy was already progressing as an intensely magical time, especially for me but also for Chris. I hadn't considered the birth to a great extent.
Lina's workshop showed us a glimpse of another way and a beautiful way to labour and birth and then you, Jo, helped us make it happen!
Those months you supported me, me expectations of birth transformed into confidence and trust in my body's ability to labour and birth our baby. More importantly this confidence gave me the spiritual experience of being in the moment, totally present, like a profound meditation, during my wonderful labour.
You had a huge influence on that amazing labour experience. It felt like you intuitively knew what I needed, when I needed it. Massage, encouragement, more massage, helping with my rhythms, even more massage. I can't thank you enough.
Although it appears our beautiful boy was too big to fit through my pelvis and we had a cesearen, it doesn't change the spiritual experience of finally meeting our darling Rhys. The labour prepared my mind and body for intense love and successful breast feeding.
The home birth attempt empowered Chris and I and prepared us as parents to be strong and courageous.
Thank you Jo. We couldn't have done it without your gentle imparting knowledge.
Love Suzanne, Chris & Rhys xxx
How do you thank someone who has been pivotal in such an empowing and life-changing experience? Well I will sure try because I really want to.
My pregnancy was already progressing as an intensely magical time, especially for me but also for Chris. I hadn't considered the birth to a great extent.
Lina's workshop showed us a glimpse of another way and a beautiful way to labour and birth and then you, Jo, helped us make it happen!
Those months you supported me, me expectations of birth transformed into confidence and trust in my body's ability to labour and birth our baby. More importantly this confidence gave me the spiritual experience of being in the moment, totally present, like a profound meditation, during my wonderful labour.
You had a huge influence on that amazing labour experience. It felt like you intuitively knew what I needed, when I needed it. Massage, encouragement, more massage, helping with my rhythms, even more massage. I can't thank you enough.
Although it appears our beautiful boy was too big to fit through my pelvis and we had a cesearen, it doesn't change the spiritual experience of finally meeting our darling Rhys. The labour prepared my mind and body for intense love and successful breast feeding.
The home birth attempt empowered Chris and I and prepared us as parents to be strong and courageous.
Thank you Jo. We couldn't have done it without your gentle imparting knowledge.
Love Suzanne, Chris & Rhys xxx
Katie w/Alec, Evan & Abbi
"Jo is a warm, kind and generous person that has supported me through two of my pregnancies and was present during the labour and birth of our first son Alec. Her love and support through this special time in our life and her continuing support and friendship has been invaluable. Joanne instinctively knew what I needed during this time and was a great support person to both my husband and myself. "
walking with women and their companions on their journey through pregnancy, birth and, early parenthood
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