I will miss her sense of humour. I will miss her wisdom. I will miss margarita time. But most of all, I will miss her passion for birth and her dedication to empowering women. Penny Simkin was one of a kind and I will miss her.
Penny leaves behind a legacy that will continue to impact the lives of birthing people and doulas for generations to come. Her life's work was not just about being a doula or a teacher, it was about creating a community and a movement that would support and uplift people through the transformative experience of childbirth.
Her love for this work was evident in everything she did, from her writings to her teachings to her interactions with others. Penny was a true pioneer and visionary, blazing a trail for doulas and birth workers everywhere. She knew that birth was sacred and she so willingly shared her knowledge with all of us. She taught me about the microbiome and epigenetics before anyone was even talking about these things. She was a student of life, forever curious - constantly learning, constantly teaching.
She was a mentor, a friend, and a role model to so many in the birth community. Her passion and dedication will live on through the countless lives she touched and the countless doulas she trained. Through the chain, she has touched millions of lives. Her work changed the options that are available to birthing people everywhere. Penny changed our lives.
The world has truly lost a remarkable woman, but her legacy will continue to inspire and guide us all. Thank you, Penny, for your incredible contributions to the world of birth and for being a shining light for so many of us. Rest in peace, dear friend.