"VBAC journey"

I recently gave birth under the care of the Midwifery Group Practice 5 (MGP5) program at King Edward Memorial Hospital (KEMH), and I’m incredibly grateful for the support I received from my two midwives, Ginny and Anika.

Ginny was assigned to me early in my pregnancy and provided steady support throughout. She made sure I felt informed, listened to, and prepared—especially as I was planning for a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Caesarean). It was comforting to be followed by someone who knew my history and could guide me through each stage with calm and clarity.

When the time came to give birth, Ginny wasn’t able to be there, and Anika stepped in last minute. What a blessing that turned out to be. From the moment we met, Anika’s warmth, calm energy, and confidence made an instant connection. She hadn’t been part of our journey from the beginning, but she stepped into the role so naturally it felt like she’d been with us all along.

And then, just to keep things exciting, our baby decided to make a grand entrance—fast. As in, we arrived at the hospital and half an hour later, there he was. Anika very nearly missed the show! But somehow, in the nick of time, she swept in like a superhero and brought the exact kind of grounded, reassuring presence we needed.

Her support through those intense (and brief!) moments of labour made all the difference. She was confident, kind, and completely focused. My partner and I felt safe, supported, and strangely calm considering how fast things were moving. Anika helped us stay centred and in control during what could’ve easily felt like a whirlwind.

Thanks to both Ginny and Anika, I had access to all the right information, felt confident going into a VBAC, and came out of the experience feeling incredibly empowered. But it was Anika’s presence during the birth that left the strongest imprint—her energy and care stayed with us long after we left the hospital.

I truly believe this model of care should be available to every pregnant woman. The continuity, the personal connection, the trust—it makes a world of difference. I’m so thankful for everything both midwives did for us, and especially grateful to Anika for showing up just in time and being exactly who we needed in that moment.