by Jeanne Faulkner, Contributing Writer

Only 50 years ago, families who adopted from overseas or other cultures were strongly encouraged to ignore their child’s birth culture and raise them “American.”  Even as recently as the 1970s  these children were raised with almost no cultural connection to their birth countries and few opportunities to learn about their history, traditions and heritage.

When Chris Beard, a certified nurse midwife in Portland, OR, turned 40, she decided her best option for motherhood as a single woman, was through international adoption.  After a year of extensive research, soul searching, paperwork and planning, she adopted Ruby from China. A few years later,
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Opportunities for Growth;   Listen in with National Center for Fathering, and CEO, Carey Casey, on how understanding first can allow for growing opportunities.

Mother’s Day Message for Mothers

May happens to be International Doula Month as well…

During this time we enjoy watching mothers in their bloom and doulas celebrating their work: supporting newborn mothers.

Transition into motherhood can be overwhelming. There is a lot to care for. Keeping mothers and their babies connected is essential for bonding and an easier postpartum time.

Nurturing and supporting a mother during her transition into motherhood creates the space for a confident and happy mother. Doulas support a mother’s success in finding her confidence to take on motherhood as a strong, courageous, determined and purposeful woman.

Doulas are helping women through childbirth and during all the postpartum moments by facilitating a safe space and caring for the birthing experience of mothers and their families.

Becoming someone’s mother becomes a little less scary and can have a long-lasting, positive effect for the mother and her family. Every day becomes Mother’s Day as a mother’s connection with her baby and family grows.

For all mothers and their families, Happy Mother’s Day!

In the doula spirit,

DONA International  and Parent Network