UPDATE: The new year kicks off with joy in Chicago as hospitals welcome the first newborns of 2026. Early reports confirm that the city’s medical facilities are alive with celebration as families embrace their newest members.
At 6:41 a.m. the first baby in the Chicago area made his debut at Sinai Chicago Hospital. Brandon Alexander Whittington, son of Shaniqua Jones and Brandon Antwon Whittington, weighed an impressive 7 pounds 13 ounces and measured over 20 inches long.
Not long after, at 1:46 a.m., Matthew Mindru was welcomed into the world by parents Ana and Serghei Mindru at UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Bolingbrook. Their little boy weighed 6 pounds 13 ounces and was 19.5 inches long, marking a joyous milestone as the couple’s first child.
At 12:50 a.m., Advocate Healthcare celebrated their first newborn of the year at Christ Medical Center. Winona LaCount, daughter of Olivia Gorney and Ryan LaCount, arrived weighing a robust 10 pounds 6 ounces and measuring 22.5 inches, setting an impressive standard for the year ahead.
The early hours of the year also saw Noah Robert Garcia making his entrance at 3:43 a.m., welcomed by parents Gino Garcia and Samantha Scuito in Joliet. He weighed 7 pounds 3 ounces and spanned 20 inches. The family is currently keeping baby photos private, adding to the anticipation of their announcement.
As these newborns arrive, they symbolize fresh hope and joy for the community. The celebrations in Chicago reflect a shared sense of optimism as families embark on new journeys in 2026. Congratulations to all the parents welcoming these little ones into the world, and may this year bring abundant happiness and health to everyone.
Stay tuned for more updates on these heartwarming births as the year unfolds, and let’s celebrate the joy of new beginnings in Chicago!
