Kristen Moracco (29), Eden (3), and Archer (1)
New York | Nashville, TN
Kristen is a previous project participant. You can view her original photo and story from 2015 here.
Kristen shares -
“After having my daughter prematurely, I felt in many ways that my body had failed me. I had less confidence and felt really horrible that I couldn't keep her in longer. I participated in this project before she turned 1, and now here I am again. Since the last time I was here, I have had a successful VBAC and the effects of this on my body confidence have been huge. I learned a lot about myself in the process of trying to achieve my VBAC - I learned how to advocate for myself when my doctors wouldn't listen. I learned that my body wasn't a ticking time bomb, but actually a safe place for my son to grow. And I learned how to express my wishes, and make changes to them as I wanted. All of that improved my confidence in myself and my own body image.
My VBAC was amazing. Everything went well, my birth plan was there but I made changes to it as I wanted to - on my terms, with my permission. I was in control. So, I felt like I was on this amazing birth high for a long time! My husband made it home from his deployment 6 days before my delivery, and had to leave again 2 weeks later. Unfortunately, I got very ill with bronchitis, and that wasn't very pleasant especially as I tried to care for two little ones by myself. It was a tough adjustment at times, but I felt strong as I went through it all, knowing that I was doing this even sick, with my husband away on a very dangerous trip - and I was getting us through it. I also had the blessing of meals - 3 or 4 times a week for 6 weeks, from my lovely next door neighbor who I hardly knew, but she cared for me and my family in such a way, I feel like she is family now! And after this time in my life of solo-parenting, when I am faced with new challenges or deployments, I KNOW that I have the strength in me to get through it all.
Trust your instincts. My first doctors, who I thought would be the best since I chose a well-known hospital in a close major city, were actually awful. They didn't listen to me when I told them the Makena injections I had to receive were too expensive and causing really unpleasant side effects. The high risk OB suggested if I can't afford them, to just "deal with" having another preemie. That was the last straw for me. I switched to an incredible midwife group who works amazingly well with their high risk OBs, and was so happy to have that support in reaching my VBAC goal. If something seems wrong, it probably is.
I am thrilled to be back to share my VBAC and this positive experience. I love this movement and the confidence it gives to so many!”