First babies of 2026 arrive at Austin hospitals

The first babies born in Austin in 2026 were born just minutes after the New Year began. Between just after midnight and early morning, hospitals across the city reported safe births.

At 12:02 a.m., the city's first baby of the year was born, the hospital reported. at Ascension Seton Medical Center in Austin. Derek Sanchez weighed 5 pounds and 5 ounces at birth. According to reports, both his mother, Maria Sanchez Diaz, and the baby were doing well.

Opal June Ixhcel Cruz was born at 12:05 a.m. at St. David's Women's Center of Texas, which is part of the St. David's HealthCare chain. Opal was 19 inches long and 5 pounds, 4 ounces heavy when she was born.

The early-morning deliveries were a joyful way for hospital staff to start the new year, and teams were ready all night to ensure complete coverage during the holiday.

The hospital said, "New Year's births are always special times for our care teams and families." "They stand for new starts and hope for the coming year."

Late in the morning, Texas Children's Hospital reported that two babies born on January 1 had arrived. At 1:42 a.m., Elina Abuasab was born to Amal and Tareq. The baby girl was 21 inches long and weighed 8 pounds, 12 ounces, according to the doctor.

After a few hours, at 3:40 a.m., Jessica and Tyler had their daughter, Hannah Harper. Hannah was 21 inches long and 6 pounds, 15 ounces heavy when she was born. The hospital said that the kids and their families were all doing well.

Officials at Texas Children's said that births on New Year's Day often make hospital units more exciting, with staff members celebrating the event while keeping their attention on caring for patients.

The group of early births brought attention to the fact that hospitals in the Austin area provide maternity and baby care around the clock. Each hospital said that mothers and babies were healthy after giving birth.

As Austin continues to grow, local health systems say there remains a high demand for obstetric and newborn services. Hospitals are ready to help families all over Central Texas.