Testimonials
Hear from clients that have been under the treatment of Agape Hands and have experienced the compassionate care and the powerful healing of birth support and massage therapy.
Antonia and I met at the gym in which she works as a massage therapist some 10 years ago... after one massage, I could tell why her nickname amidst our friends was "magic hands". Not only does Antonia have a serene and healing touch, she carries her calming sense wherever she goes. Coincidentally, Antonia's daughter's kindergarten graduation was planned for the morning I went into labor. Knowing this, I waited as long as I could before really feeling like I needed Antonia's help before forging on with a natural birth. My husband called and let her know that I was in the hospital and progressing and she jumped to guide him via telephone with ways to assist and assured us both she was on her way. This was my first pregnancy and I knew from research the help a doula could be but my goodness, I don't know that I could have had my son naturally without her! Antonia combined her honed massage skills, incredible strength and emotional support to lead me to the greatest joy I have ever experienced in my life... the birth of my son, Duke. I was discharged with a beautiful, healthy baby boy and a completely fulfilled birth plan. I am expecting my second child this year and one of my first calls was to Antonia to ensure she would attend. To know Antonia is to love her, to be assisted into motherhood, whether for the first time or not, is to truly be blessed.
-KACEY
Antonia is a true goddess angel in every way. Her presence is completely nurturing, steady, calming ,bright, fun, and loving -- she was like my medicine during my home birth making me feel safe, supported, loved . She never left my side . I had a wonderful relaxing prenatal massage days before my delivery that she came to my home to give me . I was beyond comfortable with her in every way . Also a wonderful bonus is that Antonia is an amazing photographer and took all of my birthing / afterbirth photos that I cherish . She came by a week after birth with the beautiful gifts for our daughter and still is part of our family to this day. If you’re looking for a wonderful experience in a Doula you’re on the right track by having Antonia.
-Jenette O’Rourke
I am beyond grateful and lucky to have had Antonia as my doula and friend during the births of both my sons. I was induced with both and knew I needed the extra support because I knew being induced would change the way I labored. My husband was always 100% on board as well. Antonia was a great guide for him as well. She kept us connected during labor and especially during the pushing stage. She knew when to jump in and help and how to guide my husband to be a part of it. Antonia is the best massage therapist. This is HUGE during contractions. She always knew exactly where counter pressure was needed during those big contractions. She was so in tune to my body and what I needed during my pregnancy and throughout my labor. I always felt a huge sense of comfort having her by my side. I know I could not have had two unmedicated births to my 10 lbs boys without her support and guidance. I am truly thankful and blessed to have had her by my side.
-Nicole Vinchinsky
In my latest (twin) pregnancy I was looking for a doula and a massage therapist and Antonia came recommended from three different sources, so I decided to give her a try. When I watched Antonia make up the massage bed for the first time I already knew she will become a part of my pregnancy and postpartum journey. She built a “throne” with pillows and bolsters and sat me (and my huge belly) down in the most comfortable position I have been in since the beginning of my pregnancy. My nervous system was de-stressing before the massage even started!
My time with Antonia’s was pure bliss! It was much more than massage. Antonia used various techniques of touch as well as her energy and intuition to give my body exactly the treatment that it needed. From the first session I felt relaxed and comfortable in her presence, so my body did not resist the massage and our conversation was vulnerable and honest.
Later in my pregnancy, Antonia successfully helped to turn my breech babies and when I reached full term, she (again-successfully) helped to induce my labor with acupressure. Needless to say, I continued seeing Antonia for postpartum care and it felt so great to be nourished by her in that special time. She also taught me how to perform massage on my twin girls. I am so grateful for having met Antonia and the work that she does!
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Zuzanna von Salm
“I can’t fathom having our sweet little boy here, without the help of Antonia, our doula! She rocked it! My partner was in labor for 30+ hours, 27 at home, and Antonia was by her side the entire time. I didn’t know of stamina like that... Coupled with a doula certification, she’s a darn good massage therapist as well! (A few pre natal massages included in her package! Also, neonatal massage instruction, post birth!) Nothing you want more, during a trying labor at home... We went all natural, only pain remedies were her and our midwives suggestions! After a long day, we needed an emergency c-section, and she was by our side there, too. So personable and such a positive energy, she was meant for this path! Highly recommended, by this proud & happy dad!
-Garrett Lowe
With my 1st birth, I didn’t have a doula. My husband and I took a Bradley class and he was sure he was up for the challenge. Well, let's just say, I'm not a football team Antonia brought me such comfort. She gave me support in every way possible. My birth experience with her there was nothing short of magical. She brought such a calming, safe and nurturing energy to my birth. She never left my side. I will never be able to thank her enough for how much she helped make my birth experience the best experience of my life (no offense to my 1st ). Her soothing touch and emotional support was just what I needed that day.
-Janine Reilly