Vanessa has served families around the world, and being a doula is easily the most fulfilling ‘work’ she has ever done.
LET'S CONNECT
I love getting to look back at my journey and see "how did I get here" moments that remind me of my "why." Trained first in Social Work at the University of Washington, I saw first hand the gaps in people's journeys that were in need of support, advocacy, and care. I continued in school to become an RN at Seattle University, and subsequently had a career at Seattle Childrens' Hospital for over 8 years. I loved the collaborative culture at Childrens' that worked towards closing the gaps in support for families.
While working at Childrens', I started dabbling in birth support as a doula and was drawn to walk alongside and support people through the experience of giving birth. My service to families has continued by serving as a doula in both the US and Europe, which has been the most fulfilling ‘work’ I have ever done. I believe my experiences as a health care provider, my practice and research in midwifery, and my ongoing service as a DONA-certified doula has made for the perfect combination to meet the needs of families and serve them in the most effective way I can.
Shortly after starting Expecting Joy, I knew I needed to shift my career to Midwifery and did so after earning a Masters in Nurse Midwifery from the University of Cincinnati. That part of my story was a little blurry, as I had a miscarriage and two children along the way to graduating. I have been a practicing midwife for 7 years and while continuing to lead Expecting Joy. I have personally experienced the gaps in support for families experiencing loss and infertility, and I now consider it a great honor to join alongside and offer support. I believe my clinical knowledge, social work training, doula experience, and my own personal journey help me to deeply connect with the work of Collective Hope.
I currently live in the Greater Seattle area with our five beautiful children: Quinn (9), Ryland (7), Genevieve (5), and Shepherd (1), and Hosanna and Amalia (our angel babies).
My husband and I were initially hesitant about hiring a doula for the birth of our first baby, but choosing Vanessa and Alli from Expecting Joy was one of the best decisions we made. Vanessa was instrumental in helping me execute my birth plan, which included giving birth unmedicated and in a pool. She met me exactly where I was and respected my wishes every step of the way. Her support allowed me to labor safely at home until it was time to head to the birth center, which was so important to me.
Vanessa guided me through an incredibly intense labor and birth, providing exactly the encouragement I needed. Alli joined us toward the end and brought the perfect energy to help me find the strength for the final push. The compassion and care I received from Expecting Joy during the most challenging and vulnerable (and Joyful!) experience of my life were nothing short of extraordinary.
Because of this experience, I know I will never give birth again without the support of a doula. Having Vanessa and Alli by my side made all the difference, and I’m forever grateful to them.
Elisenda Llauradó Vilà
