Thrive After Birth – Friendly, Never Forced Parent & Baby Support

Background

I am lucky to have been born and raised in the beautiful state of Colorado. I have many fond memories of ice skating and snowboarding growing up. I have also lived in Long Beach, California and Cape May, New Jersey. I graduated from South Dakota State University with a BS in Psychology and began my journey to become a postpartum doula in 2016. My husband is my best friend, and our home is full with 2 crazy dogs, a cat-like-dog and a 3 legged bearded dragon. We live in a cute 100+ year old home about 12 miles outside of Sioux Falls in Hartford, SD.

My Why

I care about people, am empathetic and pride myself on being a great listener. Children are naturally drawn to me, I really enjoy working with older siblings, and all types of animals too. I am intuitive, observant, analytical, passionate, creative, and kind. I love to serve others and don’t mind folding laundry, running to the grocery store, or making you a meal. I see a need to be filled and have the needed skills and gumption to Do something about it. I offer Friendly, Never Forced Parent and Baby Support and would love to help you to Parent with Confidence!

What Does a Postpartum Doula Do?

There are many ways that I can help you as your postpartum doula!

Two ears to hear

It is of course my pleasure to listen to your birth story, details and all!

Two hands to help

While you are holding and cuddling your baby another set of hands will be helpful.

Maintain your household

Daily duties like: laundry, meal prepping, light cleaning, etc. can be done for you.

Provide resources

Many resources to share with you, including professional referrals and a lending library.

newborn care

I will model newborn care techniques, for example swaddling, safe sleep, and much more!

sibling support

While you get in bonding time with your newborn, I am happy to tend to your other little ones or pets!

What People Say

We haven’t had our baby yet but Shannon has been a huge support already!! We are looking forward to all the skills she provides even more.. Shannon is an amazing resource to our situation since we are new to the area and without friends and family. Her services are truly filling in the gaps. She has wisdom to deal with children of all ages and personalities. I appreciate her wealth of knowledge and natural/holistic approach to health, pregnancy, and self care. Shannon goes beyond the call of duty, she is not shy of hard work. She is not easily overwhelmed by challenges that come up. Shannon is extremely grounded, observant, and patient. She has made the investment in her education and training to serve her clients and we are excited to continue reaping the benefits. Shannon has become a very instrumental resource and friend to our family. So far we have not regretted for a moment hiring Shannon for her services.

Sharilyn Trout, Client Testimonial

What a blessing this woman has been to our house! If you need #doula services in #SiouxFalls #SouthDakota #shannonward is it! Meals, support, education (#breastfeeding, #newparent training, etc), appointments help, overnights, help with the kids/family/pets she covers it all! You will not be disappointed.

Wayne Trout, Client Testimonial

I don’t know what we would have done without a doula. Even as a healthcare provider Upper Cervical of Sioux Falls, birth/new baby was a new process and to have an advocate and support system for both of us was invaluable!

Dr. Casey Weerheim, Clinician Testimonial

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Satisfied families

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Diapers changed

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Loads of laundry

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Meals prepped

I believe there are

3 Steps to Success as a New Parent

1

resources

I want to empower you to Parent with Confidence! I have many evidence based resources I can share with you, as well as a lending library.

2

A network

I can help you pool your friends and families support. As well as refer you to my wonderful network of professionals.

3

Grace

Sometimes you just need a break, that’s OK. Sometimes you need to sleep, that’s OK too. New babies take it out of us and that’s OK. I am happy to help!