On January 1, 2026, hospitals across the Chicago area celebrated the arrival of the first babies of the new year. These newborns were welcomed into the world, each marking a special moment for their families.
Chicago’s First New Year’s Babies of 2026
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Brandon Alexander Whittington
Born at Sinai Chicago Hospital at 12:06:41 a.m., Brandon weighs 7 pounds, 13 ounces and measures over 20 inches long. His parents are Ana and Serghei Mindru from Yorkville.
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Matthew Mindru
The first baby born at UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Bolingbrook arrived at 1:46 a.m. weighing 6 pounds, 13 ounces, and measuring 19.5 inches long.
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Winona LaCount
Born at Christ Medical Center to parents Olivia Gorney and Ryan LaCount at 12:50 a.m., Winona weighs 10 pounds, 6 ounces and is 22.5 inches long.
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Noah Robert Garcia
Also at Advocate Christ Medical Center, Noah was born to Gino Garcia and Samantha Scuito from Joliet at 3:43 a.m. He weighs 7 pounds, 3 ounces and measures 20 inches long.
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Juliana Marie Poore
The first baby born at Northwestern Medicine Prentice Women’s Hospital was Juliana. She was born to Cayla Calfee Poore and Preston Poore, weighing 8 pounds, 8 ounces and measuring 21.5 inches long.
These births not only signal a fresh start to the year but also bring joy and celebration to families and healthcare professionals within the community. Congratulations to all the parents welcoming their new additions!
