I have known Ruth Kraft for three years.  I first contacted her regarding doula services during my first pregnancy.  The thing I will always remember about my first contact with her was the comforting, kind sound of her voice.  I hung up the phone with her after our first conversation thinking and feeling – “I can do this!  I can grow and bring this baby into the world!”

I think this is the most significant of Ruth’s many gifts – her ability to instill confidence and calmness in the minds and hearts of pregnant women, particularly first-time mothers.  She possesses a tremendous amount of accurate information about pregnancy, birth, and child rearing.  She debunks many myths that can keep pregnant women in a state of anxiety about their bodies and health during pregnancy.  Ruth has always impressed me with her desire and her drive to learn more and more, including undertaking activities that further her own growth as a person, doula, and childbirth educator.

Ruth did not have the opportunity to attend my daughter Isabela’s birth, as she was born out-of-state during the active 2004 hurricane season.  However, Ruth did provide postpartum care and services for up to 18 months after Isabela’s birth.  Ruth provided reassurance, answered questions, and most importantly, helped me through the times I doubted my mothering abilities.  Her assistance was truly invaluable to me and to Isabela.  She truly understands the emotional mind and physiological needs of children in their newborn and toddler stages.

I now live in central Florida.  While I was on the phone with Ruth the other day, my daughter Isabela heard Ruth’s voice on the speakerphone.  Her little two year-old face lit up with a smile, and she began to chatter into the phone, telling Ruth about all of her toys.  To see Isabela’s happiness and social interaction with Ruth affirmed for me how many gifts our family received from Ruth’s time with us.  She is a treasure chest of positive emotions and information about how to approach pregnancy and childrearing in the best possible way for your family.