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For thousands of years women have been attending each other at birth, and passing down their knowledge and skills to the next generation of midwives. My learning occurred through an apprenticeship model in many different settings, with beautiful and wise midwives who taught me the art of midwifery through their example. These women have blessed my hands and I bring to my own practice that knowledge as well as my own experience and intuitive sense.

That tradition is continued through a mentoring program. I facilitate study groups for student midwives where students and experienced midwives work and learn together to enhance knowledge and skills. I am so happy to have the privilege of mentoring many students.  It is a gift to pass on the hand blessings that were offered to me when a new midwife begins her work.
—Vicki Hedley

Click here for an inspiring poem written by Raizy Goldsmith about her experience of “catching” her first baby.