Meet Jonelle

I grew up with a deep love for women and babies.  I can remember being 5 years old and when asked what I wanted to do when I grew up, I would happily respond “I want to help babies be born!”  When I was 5  I didn’t know what that meant.  It has been through years of work, exploration, and the birth of my first child that I have finally delved into my passion for helping women feel empowered to birth their babies.

I spent time in my early 20s working for a women’s health clinic, where I served as an advocate and educator.  I helped to inform women about their reproductive choices and was called to trust them to use that information wisely.  I have always been in positions as a support person, whether that was in an office, a clinic, as a community organizer or a fundraiser, I find that my passion is in helping people to make the best choices for their life.

I have known for nearly 10 years that I would love to become a Doula, and it is only now that I am able to make that leap with the support of this wonderful community.  I currently live in Sutton’s Bay, MI with my vibrant son Nettle and sweet daughter Willow, and enjoy everything in Natural that this beautiful land has to offer me.  I find it an absolute honor to be witness to this beautiful time for a family, and hope that I may aid to healing the world by helping mother’s and babies have powerful and positive birth experiences.

I am currently seeking certification as a Birth Doula through Birth Arts International and I serve as the Executive Director of Friends of Michigan Midwives.