Jacqui is a very important part of our family's recent history, as she has delivered two of our three children…

We initially met Jacqui when I was pregnant with our first child in 2002. I was determined not to give birth in a hospital (whether NHS or private) as then recent research had shown that unnecessary medical intervention was likely. I also wanted a home birth, which I was not assured of without engaging an independent midwife.

During our introductory meeting I was almost instantly certain that I wanted Jacqui to be my midwife. She conveyed care, consideration and professionalism that inspired confidence. Jacqui is no push over and can be bossy when she needs to be, which I definitely needed at times.

Jacqui delivered our first daughter, Thea, in May 2002 and our son, Henry, in January 2004. Unfortunately for me, due to Jacqui getting married after being with her partner for 20 years she was not available to deliver our third child, Hebe, in December 2005. However, that did not stop her from being available and supportive or coming to see me for a confidence boosting antenatal check up in Amsterdam, where we now live. It is a shame that she couldn't deliver all three of our children, however we feel very lucky that she was able to deliver two and be partially involved in the third. Jacqui told me that we should have planned the third pregnancy around her diary – advice I'd recommend!

Thea's birth was uncomplicated and relatively swift. I was lucky enough to be able to give birth to her at home in a peaceful and non-rushed way. Jacqui was both encouraging and practical whilst also being in control of the situation, including making cups of tea. One of my fondest memories is Jacqui tucking my husband, our beautiful baby daughter and myself up in bed before she left for the night (or more accurately the very early morning).

Henry's birth was, for me, more daunting a task, as I knew what to expect! Jacqui was again incredibly understanding and supportive and probably still has the bruises to show for her troubles. As the birth of our first child had been so fast, Jacqui stayed with me for the long drawn out stop/start labour that I had with Henry. At one point, we both sat in the bedroom knitting with me stopping during my stronger contractions.

Fortunately, the birth of Hebe in December 2005 was as equally straightforward as my two previous births, but that did not mean that I didn't miss Jacqui being there with me. Whilst the care we received in Amsterdam cannot be faulted, both my husband and I were very aware of how special the first two births had been.