About Heather Hi.  My name is Heather Hannon, and I am a fully affiliated Bradley instructor.   My husband, Craig, and I are the proud parents of four children (3 boys and 1 girl).  I am a master's prepared nurse with a strong background in women's health, but birth is my passion!   I feel blessed to have had three amazing natural birth experiences.  I am also proud to say I have been part of the Richmond birth community for a little over 7 years now and a Bradley instructor for three.  To date, I have helped to prepare over 100 Richmond couples with the birth of their baby. The Bradley Method is founded on the idea that birth is a natural process, and with the right education, support, and preparation couples can avoid routine medications and interventions during labor and delivery.  My own personal history has taught me that birth also offers the possibility of being an inceredibly rewarding and even life-transforming experience.  There is no right or wrong way to give birth, however, support and knowledge are critical pieces for acheiving a safe and positive birth experience.  It is my goal to provide you and your partner with the encouragement, knowledge, and tools you need to achieve the birth you desire and help your family have  the healthiest and best start possible.    What makes my classes unique? I have experience and knowledge in both natural birth and medicine.  As a result,  I  bring a unique perspective to the classes I teach and the support I am able to offer my students.  I have participated in a wide array of birth experiences, including both surgical and vaginal, hospital and homebirth I have tremendous trust in the birthing process and wisdome about what is needed to have a fulfilling natural birth experience.  I have birthed at home and in the hospital, with Obstetricans and with a midwife. I am skilled at helping you discover your birthing instincts and bringing out the passion inside you. I understand the medical language and can help you talk with your provider and birth team about sensitive topics in a way the feels comfortable for everyone involved.  I enjoy working with all members of the health care team, and I can help you create a successful partnership with your practitioner. I have a solid understanding of the common medications and interventions currently used in Obstetrical care. The reassuring news is that most of the time, a healthy low risk mom will never need to utilize the medical toolbox during labor.  But, there are times when medical tools are valuable, even life-saving.  I can help you navigate the maze of medical interventions and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed or frightened.  My experience also helps me assist you in better evaluating your options and making informed decisions in your care.  I am comfotable and relaxed in the hospital environment, and I have also birthed at home.  I bring real life examples from both settings into the classroom, and I use proven and practical tools to help you build your labor toolbox.  Teaching Bradley classes is a love.  I care about my students, and I am constantly inspired and motivated to do more.  It is my goal to help you and your partner fully participate in and ENJOY the birth of your child.  I know firsthand what an amazing, life-changing experience birth can be.  I am honored to participate in this journey with you.  Thank you again for your interest in natural birth, and I look forward to speaking with you soon. Warmly, Heather (804) 639-5902 Naturalmommy72@yahoo.com