My name is Venevia Osuagwu and I have been a licensed practical nurse for over 21 years. Nursing has always been my passion; however, assisting with birthing babies is even more of a passion of mine. It is truly amazing to study the birthing process and to actually see the end result: a beautiful face, tiny feet, and little hands emerging from what was once “a sperm and egg.” The life of a baby changes the life of so many people, and I always thank God because he chose me to be a small piece of his master plan for many women and their partners.
My first experience with birth, believe it or not, was with a family dog! Out of all the people in that family, they decided to call me. I did not hesitate to help and there was no fear – it was like I had done it before. Is it not funny how God had everything planned but I didn’t see it right away?
My desire was to have a house full of children. God allowed me to become a mother and I birthed a baby at seven months, weighing 2 lbs. 7 oz. During my entire pregnancy, I was in the dark. I had no clue how to do this. I only wished I could’ve had someone in my corner giving me the emotional, informational, and physical support I needed. This is why serving as a DOULA is so important to me. I want to be an advocate for women during this process, especially for young and middle-aged women, plus-sized women and their pregnancies, and women at higher risk for premature births, cesarean births, and certain diseases such as gestational diabetes.
Sadly, the death of a mother and/or baby during or after birth is also a growing problem among women of color. This happens, at times, due to a lack of information that helps families make informed decisions. When do we seek this information? At the initial prenatal visit and before procedures. More importantly, we need to empower women to know their rights as a mother, with the help of a support or partner being the one more piece of the puzzle.
Education is key to a safe, healthy, and sacred birth. I want to navigate and help families through one of the most excited moments of their lives. Parenthood doesn’t have to be scary! We will have a house full of babies. To God be the glory.