Orion’s Welcome to the World

I am so excited and honored to share with you that I am expecting a baby boy this Christmas Eve! Ever since I was a little girl, I dreamed of being a mother. Naturally, the maternal nurturing instinct kicked in when my little sister was born and she instantly became my new favorite baby doll. Time and life experiences have prepared me in so many ways for motherhood; however, one thing that has had no preparation in its addition to this equation was becoming a mother in the middle of an on-going pandemic. The past 9 months have been an absolute dream come true; feeling so blessed with this gift of life growing within me. However, the past 9 months have also been some of the most stressful, scary and financially challenging times of my life. I never would have imagined that I would have my first child during a global pandemic. That the state of the world would shut down any possible live support from my family or friends through the process because of quarantine regulations and safety protocols against travel or gatherings.  As hospitals fill up, and cases continue to reach all-time highs I grow more and more uncertain by the day of the safety of a hospital birth at this time. Not only is it one of the most fast paced times of the year with the holidays approaching right around the corner, but this ongoing pandemic has the hospitals feeling more like a mad house of emergency scenarios with overworked and exhausted front-line responders in total crisis mode. Given my experience as a nursing student and holistic healer, I have poured over studies and journals to learn the best practices for giving birth and to understand how Covid-19 affects mothers and infants. When my doctor outlined the strict rules and regulations for giving birth at the hospital during this time, including wearing a mask during labor, having to go through the emergency entrance instead of the normal labor and delivery doors, and only being able to have one person with me, I knew there had to be another way… a safer way.

Birth is a natural process, and even more natural when in the right environment and atmosphere that promotes safe & secure relaxation. For a healthy low - risk pregnancy it seems unnecessary to put oneself in potential of harm’s way by entering such a hotspot. “If any bodily process ever required a maximum degree of relaxation, it is birth.” (Ina May’s Guide to Child Birth)

Mothers and mid-wives have been delivering babies at home since the beginning of time. There is significant research supporting the idea that home births and water births are not only safe, but are sometimes, safer than hospital births (I am happy to share research, and highly recommend Ina Mays Guide to Childbirth for firsthand information regarding this subject.) After so many tests and copious appointments, my doctor has confirmed that I am a healthy, safe, low-risk pregnancy and a perfect candidate for a water birth, which I feel I have been spiritually preparing all my life.

Though it took me nearly this entire pregnancy to make the shift and find the right team, I am beyond happy to have finally found a facility that will allow me to give birth in a clean, safe, peaceful place outside of the hospital.

I know times are incredibly strange right now, so I am reaching out to all those who are able and feel aligned in making this hope a reality. I am asking for your financial support through this life-changing milestone, to help bring life into this world in a most beautiful and sacred of ways despite the chaos looming about. The cost of this experience can run up to $8,500 if not paid in a timely advance, but I am asking you and the universe today for $4444. For the opportunity to labor and deliver safely and securely with a licensed team of capable, compassionate care providers in the most serene and clean birthing center. I know that I cannot take on this feat alone but I am determined to give it my all, to honor this life within me in the best way I can. I am happy to answer any questions you may have about the research referenced above or about the facility in which I plan to attend. Thank you sincerely for taking the time to read this, I know time is of the essence and the holidays are approaching fast, so if you can please make this Christmas Miracle real, by donating any amount you are able, or by spreading the word and sharing the prayer. Your generosity at this time helps bring in the greatest gift of this year and I could not be more grateful for each and every consideration and ounce of help.  I hope all of your family are safe and healthy during this holiday season.
Blessings upon you,
With soul much love & gratitude,
Humbly,
Mercedes Marie 
& Orion Aurelius