Mama By Design

Both of my children were born in water; I cannot fathom doing it any other way. The warm, enveloping water buoyed my body and helped me feel protected as I brought my children into the world. Waterbirth International is a not-for-profit organization who’s mission statement reads “We ensure that waterbirth is an available option for all women.” I fully support this work, and that is why I was so dismayed this morning to open an email from the director Barbara Harper, and read about the trouble they are having:

For twenty plus years WBI and Barbara Harper have been guiding mothers and their providers, providing education and birth pools all over the world. Waterbirth International is facing the very difficult truth that the Gentle Birth World Congress – a fabulous success in every way for international and local attendees – drained all of our resources. We may have to close the doors permanently by January 31st.
We need to raise $200,000 in donations to cover the debts from the Congress.
With such a large sum to raise, we need each of you to support this cause. When you support waterbirth, you are making a statement that you want and need options, choices and more control.

Mama By Design participated in the Baby Expo associated with the Gentle Birth World Congress. It was truly a beautiful event. We are hoping to find a way to assist in raising funds for Waterbirth International, as it is critically important that this organization stay active and able to serve birthing women. I am considering a couple of options, including a small run of waterbirth themed embroidered panel Calyx carriers. In the meantime, check out Barbara Harper’s excellent book Gentle Birth Choices, available from Waterbirth International’s store.