Way, Iskwist Sierra sanchez.
I am a mother, a descendant of the Coeur d'Alene Tribe, and an archery enthusiast! I was raised on the Spokane Indian Reservation in Ford, WA. I grew up in a low-income household most of my life, but never realized it because of the tremendous love and support I felt from my family. As an adult this has lead me to serve those from the same type of communities. I am on a mission to bring affordable doula care to Indigenous and low income families.
I have always had a calling to serve others in a way that feels authentic and meaningful. After having my first child at home I was inspired to become a doula. I feel that this calling has fulfilled my dream of genuinely serving community as well as satisfied my desire to continuously learn and share knowledge with others.
Having my son was a lifechanging event. Not just because I have a kid now, but because it made me re-evaluate my values and traditions. As soon as I found out I was pregnant I knew I wanted to dive deeper into my culture and pass on traditions that are unique to our people. It is because of him that I have reconnected with my Indigenous roots. I am proud to say I am currently learning Salish as well as other cultural practices.
I hope to pass ancestral knowledge to my children and help them feel that they are a part of something bigger than themselves.
I am so excited to continue on this path. ♥️
Training
I have completed the SMC Full Circle Doula Birth Companion Training as well as an Indigenous Lactation Counselor Training in May of 2023. I believe in, and have been trained in, culturally competent care. My training is very inclusive from conception to postpartum (“full circle”) and allows me to serve clients with confidence.
Completing training has provided me with a provisional doula certificate as I continue to gain experience and expertise. I am currently offering doula services as I satisfy additional requirements in order to receive my official doula certificate.
I have also taken the time to join the Spokane Professional Doula Association. I am a huge fan of the association as they encourage teamwork between medical professionals and doulas to provide the best outcomes for our clients! SPDA is also very big on continuing education which aligns perfectly with my personal values.
As of August 2023, I have completed an L & I approved CPR training. I now carry a CPR license and additional confidence as I serve my clients. I have to say a special thanks to the Shades of Motherhood Network for providing CPR training free of charge to our community. The training was taught by a professional who trained employees at the local VA Hospital for 20 years. The training was open to doulas, parents, and other community members who wished to attend. I am so grateful for events such as this, which allow me to better myself and my services without raising prices for my clients.
In September 2023 I completed my bloodborne pathogen training and in January 2024 I began an Indigenous Childbirth Educator Course. I am currently working toward this credential as I continue to attend classes through June 2024.
February 2024 I completed the Coeur d’Alene Holistic Doula Training. I feel that it is very important to pull from different sources when continuing education. Different sources hold different knowledge. I was very pleased with the training and new wisdom I was able to take away from it. I am so thankful for the amazing birth workers in our area.
I am a very grounded person. I can be excitable at times, but I generally keep a calm demeanor. I love to joke and laugh, but I also understand when it is time to be serious. I am very caring and empathetic to others’ needs. I am a busy body and love being active.
Lately, I can be found spending my free time at archery shoots, swimming, gaming, spending time with friends and family, or checking out local events. I have also become very invested in volleyball and have been playing in my city’s rec league for two seasons!
Personality
why hire a doula?
A doula can be a huge part of your support system. An emotional crutch when you need it, a connection to resources, and an educator/informant to help you feel confident in your decisions by providing evidence-based knowledge. As your doula, I can help you establish and enforce your expectations. I can help you manage life and guide you through those early days with your little one. I can support and assist in your breastfeeding journey. I can hold space that makes you feel safe and comfortable.
Doulas carry some of the load as you adjust to your new lifestyle.
My Approach
I practice culturally competent, evidence-based care. I believe in our body’s ability and intuition. If you have any traditions, rituals, or ceremonies related to your experience I would love to help make them happen.
I work for YOU, not the hospital/midwife/state or anyone else. You can rest assured knowing I will always have your best interests in mind.
