About the Assistants

Merka Martin, CD(DONA)
Midwifery Assistant, Hypno-Doula

I am a Certified Birth Doula, trained through DONA International and also a certified Hypno-Doula.  I am deeply honored to bear witness to the experience of pregnancy and birth.  It has been my pleasure to nurture pregnant women and their families in Central Oregon since 2007. 

I have been assisting Janette since 2008 and in that time have discovered my passion for midwifery.  In the fall of 2009 I will begin deepening my journey into midwifery through three years of intensive training with Seattle Midwifery School.

Amanda Reilly, CD(DONA)
Midwifery Assistant, Certified Hypno-Doula, Childbirth Educator

My journey towards birth work began in 2004 with the pregnancy of my first child.  I became fascinated with the childbearing year and the excitement a new life brings to the world.  I had a wonderful birthing experience with my first, and afterwards was inspired to help women and their families experience an empowering, peaceful and fulfilling birth, just as I did.  I am now the proud mama of two beautiful boys!

I am honored to be a part of the Bend Birth Center team, supporting women through the initial journey of motherhood.  I hold each family close to my heart and thank them for allowing me to be part of their experience.

I have had the privilege of teaching childbirth education classes through the Bend Birth Center since March 2009.  Classes are designed to help the expectant mother and her partner have a natural, positive and empowering birth experience.