Anything is possible when you believe in yourself and are supported in that belief. I have always known that I wanted to be a Mama and have a big family, that I had so much love and life to share with the universe. I was diagnosed with Von Willebrands at 6 years old, I was told to forget about having children. Having a full blown bleeding disorder hindered me and created big fear. No sports, playing at recess, internal bleeding, transfusions and for many years the idea of experiencing a pregnancy and birth of my own.

When I turned 17 my Dr told me that, with new medical knowledge, I could have a successful birth in an extremely controlled environment. No alternative laboring and birthing positions, in bed, the no's and blood disorder caused me to have a postpartum hemorrhage with my first birth. The fear and anxiety we had around birth was so unnatural, so clinical, so stressful. It made all the kicks and magic riddled with fear. My next two births in hospitals were much better. I had amazing doulas and wonderful doctors and so much more knowledge about motherhood, birth and my body.

Von Willebrands taught me how to advocate for myself and my health. I have always been fairly "granola" and I dreamt of birthing at home. I knew I was capable, my husband knew I could do it, but not many physicians did. Medicine is so much about fear and control these days, there is little self advocacy, and there just isn't enough support for women's health. After I was served so many "no's" when it came to my choice in birth, with the love and support of sisters near and far, after tears, and so much determination, I met the amazing Charli and Sarah. They heard me, they saw me, and they believed in me. They saw my strength, my ability, my knowledge of self. They listened to me through tears, smiles, blood, love and birth. They hugged my children close. They encouraged both my husband and I through birth and new life. With laughter, quiet, and care they left their magical imprint on all of our hearts. I couldn't be more honored to have them both by our sides as we welcomed Our fifth baby home. With full hearts and gratitude we recommend Hearth and Home. —Jessie