Hello, my name is Tatianna and I’m 33 weeks pregnant, due at the end of May or early June. I’m reaching out to ask for support in achieving the home birth that I know is right for me and my baby.

The month of May holds deep significance for me. It’s the month of my brother’s birthday—someone who was taken too soon when he was tragically killed in the line of duty on November 11, 2023, he was a Swat Police Officer in Austin, Texas. His passing left a deep hole in my heart, and I found myself grieving so much while also preparing for the birth of my first child. My daughter was born on December 1, 2023, just two weeks after my brother’s death.

It was an overwhelming time. Grief and excitement collided, and while I was eager to meet my baby, I was also dealing with unimaginable loss. I struggled with the emotional weight of it all, and my first birth experience was not what I had hoped for.

I gave birth in Costa del Sol, Spain, and the experience was traumatic. I had requested an epidural when I was 8 cm dilated, but instead of a calm, controlled delivery, I found myself pushing for three hours in active labor. In the end, I was rushed to an emergency c-section, but the medical team never explained what was happening or why. My husband and I were left in the dark, and I felt like I had no voice in the process. I was terrified, and my baby’s heart rate had dropped, which is why the emergency c-section was necessary. But the lack of communication and respect for my wishes left me feeling powerless and scarred by the experience.

Now, with my second child on the way, I am determined to have a different experience. I want to give birth in a calm, peaceful environment, surrounded by people I trust, and with full control over my decisions. After much thought, research, and reflection, I know that a home birth is what feels right for me.

The home birth team I’ve chosen is amazing and experienced, and they are offering their support, which includes midwifery care and a doula. Unfortunately, this is a cost that is not feasible for us at the moment, as I am not currently working, and my husband’s salary is not enough to cover the expenses of a home birth, especially with the financial strain of our growing family.

I am asking for help to make this peaceful, healing birth possible. Your generous support will help cover the cost of the midwifery and doula services and give me the peace of mind and gratitude I need to bring my baby into the world in a way that honors my body, my spirit, and the memory of my brother.

I am so deeply thankful for any support you can provide, whether it’s a financial contribution or simply sharing this story with others. Your help will mean the world to me, and I will carry it with me as I prepare to give birth with strength, calm, and the support I need.

Thank you for reading my story and for being part of this journey with me. I can’t wait to bring my baby into this world with peace and love.

with much gratitude
Tati

Supporting a Peaceful Birth After Loss and Trauma