Hi, I’m Jane, a postpartum/infant care doula on the Boston Area Doulas team. Growing up, I wanted to be a veterinarian or maybe Ginger Rogers. (Flash forward: I was not suited to either of those endeavors, trading a biology major for the history of science, and a life on stage for the classic hippie ‘twirl’ at many concerts!)

After college, I pursued a career at Harvard University, primarily in the areas of finance and administration, and also earned a master’s degree in education. In that time, my husband and I raised our two children, cared for elders, and juggled all the challenges that came with it. I retired after 35 years, ready for a change but too young to REALLY retire.

In discerning my next move, one that would bring me joy in helping others, I kept coming back to babies. When I learned about postpartum doulas, I knew it was for me! When my niece told me I was a ‘baby whisperer’ as I helped care for her 3 week old, it cinched the deal.

My advice to expecting or new parents:

Be gentle with yourselves, and try not to have too many expectations of how the first few months will be. The birth parent needs to heal and recover, and all family members need to adjust. Accept help from trusted friends, say yes to casseroles, and no to visits you don’t feel up to. You can do this, and I’d love to help.

Outside of my doula work, I enjoy music of all kinds. I like to bake and make pizza. I'm active in my local Episcopal Church, and I love puzzles--NYT crosswords, Wordle, etc.

Check out what one of Jane’s families said about her:

“Jane is a delight - and brought wisdom and enthusiasm to her work with our son! He absolutely adored her and was often smiling in her presence -- and so were we. She has a great sense of humor! We feel lucky to have had her presence as a doula during our family's transition back to work after parental leave.” M and C