About Me

LeeAnne's story.....

Since 1994 I have been involved with pregnancy, being a new mom, babies, and children. I have three beautiful children of my own, and I have absolutely LOVED every minute of being pregnant and raising babies. I am thrilled to have reached a point in my life where I can help and support other women to have wonderful pregnancy and birth experiences!

A bit about my history....for the past 15 years I have been a Montessori teacher, being involved with children between the ages of 2 1/2 to grade 3. When my second child was in junior kindergarten I decided to stay home until she was in school full time. I felt the need to take some time from my career for myself, and to be available for my daughter on her days home from school. I spent the next three years doing just that, as well as having my third baby.! A year later I found myself back in the classroom teaching, but couldn't stop thinking that there was another career calling me…..

A co-worker and friend of mine became pregnant not long ago, and we would spend countless hours discussing pregnancy, birth and babies. I often mentioned how it would be so fantastic to be able to work with new moms once they'd returned home from the hospital with their new babies. One day she simply said to me, "have you ever considered being a doula?".  It was at that exact moment that the proverbial 'light bulb' went off in my head. I had not heard the word doula since I was offered a volunteer doula as part of a case study, when I gave birth to my first baby almost 12 years ago. I went home that evening and researched doulas, and wouldn't you know it??? The service I had described was already out there - Postpartum Doulas! I was hooked, and the rest is history. I've since completed the Labour Doula and Postpartum Doula programs with Childbirth International (CBI). I am currently finishing up my requirements for certification as a Childbirth Educator as well, also with CBI, with the goal of being able to offer a variety of prenatal classes, in addition to the traditional Prepared Childbirth course.

In addition to teaching classes and providing support during labour and in the postpartum period, I am currently involved as a volunteer labour doula at St. Martin's Manor, a residence for pregnant teens in the Hamilton area. I also hope to become involved in the local hospital volunteer doula programs very soon.

My future plans include pursuing my certification as a Lactation Consultant, and Hypnobirthing instructor. I also have an avid interest in home waterbirth, and am busy learning everything I can about that!

Birth Experiences...

Normal Birth
Waterbirth
Unmedicated Homebirth
Pitocin Induction
Epidural

There is nothing more wonderful than the whole experience of pregnancy and childbirth, and enjoying your new little addition to the family! I am thrilled to be able to offer you information, skills, and unconditional, non-judgemental support as you prepare for your birth experience.

Explore though the links on the left to find out more about Mia Bella Mamma Doula Care!