Birth Journeys is run by Michele Sears in Guelph, Ontario.  Birth Journeys provides comprehensive Childbirth Education and personalized Breastfeeding Support.

The childbirth classes are based on the fact that informed choice reduces anxiety, boosts confidence, and improves overall outcome of our birth experience.

The breastfeeding support I offer is personalized for you at your baby's age and stage, and is completely dependent on your breastfeeding goals.  I am here to support you and your baby, whether it be with eliminating pain, becoming more efficient, getting comfortable in new positions, exploring nighttime options, and more.

I welcome the opportunity to earn your trust and assist you in preparing for your upcoming birth, as well as through any difficulties you may experience with breastfeeding.

 

My background:

1992-1996:  Honours B.Sc from the University of Guelph.  Worked as a research assistant in Merck Frosst in Montreal, as well as for Professor Alyea at the University of Guelph.  Switched majors several times, taking courses from Chemistry, Microbiology, Toxicology, and finally Human Nutrition.  I love science and statistics!!

1996:  Birth of first daughter - in hospital, with epidural

1998:  Birth of first son - at home

1998-2003  La Leche League Leader - volunteer position running local mother-to-mother breastfeeding support groups, providing phone support, and home visits for breastfeeding mothers.  Presented at LLL conference on toddler discipline with love.

2000-present: Childbirth Educator (certified through ALACE) with Family Midwifery Care of Guelph. Also taught for a year at the Guelph Midwives.

2002 - birth of second son, at home

2006-present: Childbirth Educator with Conestoga College in Guelph, Cambridge and Kitchener. I teach the Conestoga College Prenatal-to-Parenting series.

2009-present: Breastfeeding consultant in Guelph area.  Trained at Newman Breastfeeding Clinic and Institute and locally with IBCLC's in hospital and community settings. Wrote IBCLC (international board-certified lactation consultant) exam in July 2011. 

2010-present:  Re-activated La Leche League Leadership.  Volunteer position running local mother-to-mother breastfeeding support groups, telephone support, and home visits.

2011-present: Certified IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant)

2011-present:  Enrolled full-time in the Accelerated Nursing Program at McMaster to become a Registered Nurse.