My name is Grace (she/her) and I am a Registered Midwife and Lactation Consultant (IBCLC certified). I grew up in the Tri-Cities so it’s an absolute privilege to be able to support families in our community. I humbly acknowledge the privilege of working on the traditional territories of the Kwikwetlem first nation which lies within the shared territories of the Tsleil-Waututh, Katzie, Musqueam, Qayqayt, Squamish, Stó:lō nations.
Ever since I could remember, I wanted to deliver babies and be part of the birthing process. I attended Seattle Midwifery School (now known as Bastyr University) in Seattle, WA from 2007-2010. Throughout my training, I have attended births in various locations: home, birth center and hospital. In 2012, I completed the UBC Multi-Jurisdictional Bridging Program (MMBP), a program that orients internationally trained midwives to Canadian midwifery practice specifically for BC, and have been working as a Registered Midwife ever since.
Prior to midwifery, I studied at Simon Fraser University (B.Sc Kinesiology and a certificate in Health and Fitness) and worked as a Registered Kinesiologist. I specialized in rehabilitating whiplash, neck, shoulder and upper body injuries. I also attended Douglas College’s Doula training course and volunteered as a doula.
I believe that birth can be a beautiful, natural process. This belief solidified during the births of my two sons who were both born at home with midwives. I am grateful and honoured to be in this position to be able to serve our community. It truly is a privilege to be able to be part of your journey.
Recently, there has been an increasing need in the community for feeding support. In 2023, I became an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and CranioSacral Therapist (Level 2). I hope to help support even more families in our community with whatever feeding goals you may have! 🙂
I wanted to deliver babies and become a midwife. I think childbirth is one of the most amazing things you could ever experience, and I loved working with people and seeing the joys in family when they welcome a new member to it. It really brought me joy to be around that. -Natalie Martinez