I have had the privilege to attend so many beautiful births and I am so grateful for the kind words shared here.
Happy Women's day to my beautiful journey coach, not just my personal Midwife but she plays a very special role in my life... She prays for me, she uplift my faith...Always there to take my calls... She says it's part of her job but she goes too deep to understand u, she becomes a mother, a sister a friend... I would get tired but she doesn't. Thank u so so much Sis Lilo
I have many words that can describe my birth, all beautiful, brilliant & powerful words. All positive, loving, kind words. None of which I could come to without Ten n Ten, without my midwife Lilo. From our very first meeting, to our 6 week check, she brought nothing but her undivided attention, her loving & warm presence, her devotion to making sure my needs were always met. (She also doesn’t neglect our partners when we’re too busy pushing out a baby) When I felt like giving up during birth, she spoke words of affirmation into me & reminded me that I am in control. She guided me through uncharted waters, endearingly, undoubtedly & oh so beautifully. The most magical experience of my life is owed to her! My only go-to midwife!
Where do I even begin??!.... I met Ma Lilo Mthembu on Instagram stories that my sister had found, and I fell in love with her, with her compassion and patience for her clients. I had to meet her, I just had to. So, I moved from Durban, back home to Johannesburg to prepare for maternity leave with family and to consult with Ma Mthembu.
I fell in love with her the day I met her – she reminded me of a warm cup of a red latte on a cold Ballito morning. Our consultations were few because I was already advanced in my pregnancy, but she took away the anxiety of being a first-time mom with what seemed like a small baby because I myself am of a tall, slender stature. Fast forward to the week of delivery....
On the Wednesday afternoon, whilst shopping for some baby clothes, I felt warmth down my inner thighs, and I knew the first signs of his arrival were here. My beloved and I found the nearest bathroom and on my underwear, sat a bloody blob of mucous. So, we rushed back home, I cleaned up and called Ma Mthembu to let her know what was happening. Following her advice, I soaked in a warm bath with relaxing salts, and life continued.
It was 01:00am that Friday morning that I started having some unbecoming pains which came in waves. They worsened around 04:00. We called Ma Lilo, who was already at the hospital, and by the time we arrived, after having had a tyre flatten on the highway, I had was numb from the pain. When she assessed me, it was time to push – thank God I did not give birth on the side of the N3 during the changing of the tyre. We had a tiring but beautiful water birth with Ma Lilo right there through it all, encouraging me not to give in to the fatigue and still cracking jokes in the middle of excruciating pain.
We will forever be grateful to Ma Mthembu for her unreserved excellence at what she does and her undeniable love for this work that she is clearly called for.
Ngiyabonga Ma Lilo Mthembu, Mvelase, Qhudeni Mvelase, Owavel’eNyandeni yemikhonto yakwa Mvelase
Uncertain, novice, scared, anxious. These are some of the words that would have decribed me during my first pregnancy. By God's grace, I found Lilo to guide me on this journey. I didn't have a birth plan, I didn't know what to expect, and am I glad I didn't. I was in good hands! I ended up having the most beautiful life altering experience and I would wish the same for every prospective mom. Lilo guided me every step of the way, gave me space to make my own decisions but also stood firm on some of the care principles she doesn't negotiate on. I'm definitely keeping her on speed dial for next time!
God knew the kind of midwife I needed to walk with me through my VBAC journey, that's why I met Sr Lilo. Her gentle approach to birth, her loving and undying spirit and wisdom are what I needed to carry me through pregnancy during a pandemic. When it was time to labour, and during the moments where it was unbearable, you reminded me of my innate strength. You are fierce! You are warmth! Above all- you are a Mother at your core. Thank you for loving me, believing in me, for being in my corner and rooting for me, always. Thank you, Lilo, for sharing your calling with me.
Thank you for helping me through this journey. I Don't think I would've been able to birth naturally without yourself and Claurette. You're definitely in this field for your passion and expertise, it's difficult to come across both. I pray that God gives you many, many, many more years of helping woman through this journey.
Lots of Love,
Santana, Kiran & Eli
We just want to take this opportunity to appreciate Lilo Mthembu.
Lilo played a very big role during our pregnancy journey. We were new we’re about to become new parents and didn’t really know what to expect with the new life that was suddenly being thrown at us. We had so many questions that the internet could not provide answers to- on how to do pregnancy correctly, how to birth correctly and e.t.c. Lilo changed all that. Not only did she have plenty of knowledge and resources for every aspect of our pregnancy, but she also made me feel like my instincts and needs were what was best for me and my son Mbusi. Under her tutelage, I began to trust myself better.
Lilo was also a solid and comforting presence throughout the birthing process. She allowed me to lead the process, however my body directed. She was so patient and encouraging throughout. There’s no doubt that she really loves what she does, she always goes the extra mile and made me feel really special and comfortable. She is a rock! My husband and I are so blessed to have had Lilo as part of our journey. We are definitely going back to her with our future pregnancies.
Love,
Penny and July Masango
Lilo is our superhero! From the moment we met her, we felt like family. Lilo is so warm and grounded. Her presence empowers and puts one at instant ease. She is always available to help silence our insecurities and encourage us. We had the most amazing home birth with Lilo, she made us feel so secure in our decision that all doubts and worries were set aside. Midwifery is definitely in her veins and we are forever grateful to her for a safe and successful homebirth experience.