Written By: Fajr Dawn Peters

I'm expecting! I am filled with excitement and anticipation of what this new addition could mean. Through all my thoughts and emotions, a fact I know deeply comes to the surface: 'I have to prepare.'

Having had six children before, I know that knowledge is power and preparation is key. I must make informed, thoughtful choices because these choices impact outcomes; failing to make a choice is in itself a choice.

I've chosen my provider, Aisha al-Hajjar, a wonderful midwife, mashaAllah, that I had been blessed to work with before. The role of the provider cannot be overstated and has huge implications for the pregnancy journey and when it is time to give birth. Having worked with her before, I know that she has truly invested in my success. BaarakAllahu feeha.

Every woman deserves a doula. In this journey, my mentor is Hafsa, a beautiful sister skilled in her craft mashaAllah. The support she provides is invaluable for helping me navigate this journey. While she will not do the work for me, she provides strategies to help me achieve what I envision and am working towards.

I surround myself with other like-minded sisters on the same journey. The sense of community and support from my sisters help promote emotional well-being, one of the '3 things that moms can miss out on.'

Nutrition and exercise are powerful tools I use to cultivate what is within me, give me the strength and stamina for the journey ahead, and bring forth what Allah has ordained for me.

I am committed to putting in the work. As I grow and stretch, I know there will be some growing pain, but inshaAllah, I will not shrink back or shift pain or discomfort now for pain or discomfort later at a time when I should be basking in joy. With knowledge, I will employ evidence-based measures to help me get through. With Allah's help and the support of my team, I know that inshaAllah I can do this... that I was built for this by Al Musawwir (the Fashioner of Forms).

This journey, which seems long now, will be over in the blink of an eye and inshaAllah on September 28, 2025, my due date, I will give birth not to my seventh child but to my diploma as an AMANI scholar.