Today we’d like to introduce you to Tunisia Macklin

Tunisia , we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?

As the eldest of four siblings, I had the opportunity to witness my mother’s journey through pregnancy, labor, and breastfeeding. Every pregnancy became a valuable learning experience for me. I fondly recall listening to the heartbeat through her stethoscope and assisting her during labor. My mother involved me in tasks like providing water, preparing baths, and keeping her company during labor. This early exposure marked the beginning of my path, thanks to my mother.

From a young age, I knew I wanted to assist people, initially assuming I would pursue a career in the medical field like my mother, who was a nurse. However, my aversion to blood made me realize nursing wasn’t the right fit. With my mother’s guidance, we discovered that massage therapy was the perfect career choice for me. Embracing massage therapy as a second chance, I found immense fulfillment in guiding individuals on their healing and wellness journeys.

Becoming a massage instructor at my Alma Mater revealed my passion for shaping the minds of aspiring massage therapists. Teaching brought me joy, and interacting with exceptional individuals enriched my experience. During my time as a massage therapist and instructor, a colleague noticed my enthusiasm for supporting a friend during childbirth and introduced me to the term “Doula.” Intrigued, I explored this path and eventually became a Doula after completing the training.

Amid my Doula journey, I faced my own fertility challenges. The profound experience of completing the Doula program and discovering my pregnancy shortly after was remarkable. Supporting my clients through their pregnancies while expecting my own child led to humorous anecdotes that I cherish. Since embarking on my Doula journey in 2012, I am grateful for every family that entrusted me to support them and for the individuals who contributed to my personal growth.
Expanding my expertise, I ventured into placenta encapsulation and women’s health as an herbalist, aiding women in overcoming fertility obstacles naturally. Peaceful Birthing Doula, based in Bloomingdale, Illinois, has evolved. We have partnered with the Mother’s Milk Bank of the Western Great Lakes to offer families a drop-off point for donor milk and provide postpartum resources like Comfort Measures classes and postpartum preparation. Additionally, we conduct an annual postpartum giveaway, offering a package filled with essentials for postpartum recovery.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

Starting Peaceful Birthing Doula was the easiest thing. Running peaceful Birthing Doula has been the challenge. Shortly after opening in Bloomingdale, Il I was faced with a challenging moment. I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Having to battle and do treatments that required me to slow things down. Trying to hire during that time was difficult as well. I had so many Beautiful Mommies looking for my support in massage and Doula support how could I manage and still take care of myself? Marketing and funding have been an ongoing challenge. I am doing ok but now and in order to expand my reach and support more people I need people to know Peaceful Birthing Doula.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Peaceful Birthing Doula?

Peaceful Birthing Service is a holistic Doula practice devoted to supporting, educating, and empowering women and families throughout their birthing journey. With a deep passion for birth, I excel in assisting hospital births by leveraging my effective communication skills and advocacy abilities when necessary. Specializing in personalized Doula support, I embrace diverse cultures to provide a comforting touch of home for those without family nearby or facing cultural challenges. For Christian Doula clients, I create a birth experience intertwined with prayer and worship. Offering Prenatal massage and postpartum recovery planning, I aid families in preparing for their new arrivals.
At Peaceful Birthing Doula, we offer prenatal massages, including techniques for mothers with breech babies. By combining massage methods and gentle guidance, I have successfully helped babies transition to the correct position. Our services extend to Placenta Encapsulation, organic herbal teas for various needs, and organic body butters blended with essential oils and herbs to promote a holistic approach to well-being.
Throughout the years, I have been fortunate to receive support from individuals who appreciate my work, offering prayers and donations that have enabled my business to flourish. I am seeking donations to help me provide assistance to families in need. With this support, I will be able to extend help to more people. Due to my family responsibilities, I am unable to offer many discounted services. I hope that through donations, we can assist families who require it.
People can visit my website and donate financially, or you can donate items that you do need any longer to bless families.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?

As a child, I adored animals and even thought about becoming a veterinarian. Known for bringing home stray animals, I was sometimes referred to as Dr. Doolittle. I also, had a vivid imagination and vivid memories of playing with dolls. My mother used to say that I had a natural inclination to be a mother and caretaker, a notion I only fully understood as I grew older. Throughout my life, I have always been someone who takes care of others. When my mother faced postpartum depression after giving birth to my younger brothers, I instinctively stepped in to help without hesitation. As her condition worsened into postpartum psychosis, I never questioned what needed to be done; I simply took action. At the age of 10, I unintentionally became a caregiver. Despite being reserved, I always sought enjoyment, stayed occupied, with a touch of assertiveness

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.peacefulbirthingdoula.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peacefulbdoula/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PeacefulBirthingDoula/
• Twitter: https://x.com/peacefulbdoula
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@peacefulbirthingservices8169

Image Credits
Kristi Nishimura, Photographer
Abigail Paige Photography
Peaceful Birthing Doula