Hi there! My name is Darshal, but you can call me Dee! I am a mom and an experienced doula. I'm originally from Mississippi, currently residing in the DMV, and have a beautiful, blossoming teenage daughter! My journey into motherhood and the knowledge and empowerment gained through childbirth has led me to become a doula based here in the DMV. I have a passion for helping individuals achieve a positive and satisfying childbirth experience. My goal as a doula is to help educate and offer support and comfort for all birthing persons during their fertility, pregnancy, and labor, and postpartum ultimately leading to a positive birth and wellness experience.
My favorite and most memorable childhood Christmas present was a Baby Alive! (Yep! I'm that many years old, lol!) It was the closest thing to a real baby you could get. Her preemie-sized real baby clothes were changed umpteen times a day, she was regularly showered with baby powder, and was fed and swaddled dotingly! AND OH! The diaper changes were epic! My birth work pays homage to my Grandmother, Eunice Ann Walker Redick. She was a nurse for over 40 years. She would routinely take me on a nursery tour, and I'd pretend to have patients on the entire floor. She played a pivotal role in shaping my interest, and over the years, I found myself immersed in all things maternal and women's wellness.
Moreover, my village is made of the most unique and vital people. My mom - has an unapologetic strength that I can only one day hope to attain. One thing for certain, two things for sure: I will figure it out through the essence of her and get it done! My Grandma Shirley - this woman played a pivotal role in my spiritual growth and development. They say grandma's prayers are why many of us are still here! I truly believe that! My little sisters Shekita and Amari! They have been my Knuck if you Buck, ride or die! Thanks for always being my best friend. My stepmom for always being that second line of defense and always a phone call away! Shout out to my partner, a host of aunts, cousins, friends, acquaintances, etc.; who have LEGITIMATELY supported me and pushed me to keep going! All of you are my village!
I enjoy volunteering, serving as a caretaker to those in need, and keeping current on healthcare literature. Despite the challenge of having multiple miscarriages, my spirit remained strong. The birth of my daughter brought an incredible feeling of joy that strengthened that spirit. I often call it my spiritual awakening. I was truly blessed. My family and friends provided a great support system. I want to offer that same love and support to other families like mine.
I realized the profound impact birth has on an individual's psyche and self-esteem. I felt empowered, capable, and in control of who I was and what I could do. A positive, successful journey into motherhood has hugely influenced this. Regardless of age, race, culture, or circumstance, I believe every family has the right to achieve the truly liberating, empowering, and self-affirming experience childbirth can be. By making their birth better, the outcomes for babies are better too.
Having a doula with you every step of the way can make this a reality, and the benefits, as I have experienced, continue long after the birth itself. It has become my life purpose to help as many families as possible have a healthy and positive childbirth experience; celebrate their new baby and the promise that a new little life brings.
Education
North Carolina Central University - Bachelor of Science - Biology / Criminal Justice
University of Maryland, University College - Bachelor of Science - Business Administration (That's right 2nd degree 😎)
American University, Kogod School of Business- Master of Business Administration
Certifications
National Black Doula Association - Certified Doula
National Health and Safety Administration - Bloodborne Pathogens
Biologix Solutions - Bloodborne Pathogens
Woman's Choice Perinatal Services - Certified Placenta Encapsulation
Steamy Chicks - Vaginal Facilitator
American Red Cross - CPR, BLS, AED
Natural Abundance Health & Birthing, LLC - Certified Herbalist
Future Midwife Loading...
Memberships / Affiliations
National Black Doula Association, Member
Motherboard Birth - Birth Pro Member
American Cancer Society, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer - Regional Ambassador (NCR)
Evidence-Based Birth Pro Member
IRTH National Ambassador
Howard County Local Health Improvement Coalition
Copyright © 2022 Dee The Doula Maternal and Holistic Wellness Services, LLC - All Rights Reserved.
Dee The Doula Maternal & Holistic Wellness Services, LLC is proud to support all families regardless of race, faith, sexuality, gender identity, marital status, age, immigration status, or family configuration.
Serving families in DC | Silver Spring | Takoma Park | Hyattsville | Upper Marlboro | Laurel | Fulton | Savage - Jessup | Bowie | Clinton | Waldorf | Columbia | Ellicott City| Alexandria | Baltimore | Catonsville | Mt. Airy | Maple Lawn | Brandywine | Charles County
Back like I never left! After a much need sabbatical and need for some serious self-care, I am happy to say DeeTheDoula is officially open and accepting 2025 families for support!
Wishing you all the best!
With love,
Dee💕