New year, new life: First babies of 2026 welcomed across West Michigan hospitals

KALAMAZOO,Mich.—ThreeWestMichiganfamilieswelcomedanewadditiononthefirstdayofthenewyear. AtBronsonBirthplaceinKalamazoo,theKilmartinfamilywelcomedahealthybabyboyat12:19a.m.,accordingtoBronsonHealthThursday. Weighing6pounds,2ouncesandmeasuring19incheslong,thebaby’sparents,PeteandDemiKilmartin,andhisbigsisterarealldoingwell.They’rethrilledtowelcomehimtothefamily,officialssaid. “IloveworkingatBronsonBirthPlacebecausewelcomingbabiesintotheworldismorethanajob—it’sanhonor,”LeTishiaHill,nursingdirectoratWomen’sandChildren’sServicesforBronsonHealthcare,said.“Wecelebrateeachfamilybypartneringwiththemthroughcompassionandrespect,creatingasafeandjoyfulbeginningforeverybabyandeveryfamilyweserve.” BronsonBirthplaceinBattleCreekalsowelcomedahealthybabyboytotheworldat5:13a.m.Thursday.Thefamilychosetoremainanonymous. OveratCorewellHealthButterworthHospital,parentsEmilyStrangandChristianAdsitwelcomedt