Emory Healthcare marked the start of 2026 by welcoming the first babies of the year at four of its hospitals in Georgia.
The earliest arrival was baby girl Naomi, born at Emory Decatur Hospital exactly at midnight on January 1. Naomi weighed 7 pounds, 0.9 ounces and measured 19 inches. She is the first child for her mother, Morgan. Naomi’s grandmother chose her name, and although she was due on December 31, she arrived as soon as the New Year began. The family expressed surprise that her birth coincided with the dropping of the New Year’s ball.
At Emory Hospital Warner Robins in central Georgia, baby girl Blakely was born at 2:06 a.m., weighing 6 pounds, 6 ounces and measuring 18 inches. Her parents, Ashley and Brandon, welcomed her earlier than expected. Blakely joins a large family with six siblings.
Later in the morning at Emory Johns Creek Hospital, baby boy Taylor was born at 3:21 a.m., weighing 7 pounds, 14 ounces and measuring 19.5 inches. His mother Shamease works as a labor and delivery nurse at Emory. Taylor is the first child for Shamease and his father Taylor.
At Emory University Hospital Midtown, baby boy Zaylon arrived at 7:36 a.m., weighing 7 pounds, 5.5 ounces and measuring 20.5 inches. He was also born ahead of his due date. His mother Synethia said that Zaylon now shares his birthday with his cousin.
“Happy birthday to all babies born on Jan. 1, 2026, and congratulations to the parents and families of these new bundles of joy.”
