As the world stepped into 2026, a new life marked the occasion in Columbus. ABC 6 reports that the first baby of the year, known affectionately as “baby boy Durow,” was born at Mount Carmel Grove City at 12:14 a.m., weighing in at 6 lbs. and 3 oz. The parents, Naima and Adan, received more than just well wishes for their New Year’s arrival—they also got a special onesie for their child emblazoned with “hello world, hello 2026.”
Mount Carmel Health System has made this act a tradition for January 1st babies, according to Spectrum News 1. The hospital said in a news release, “It’s a small gesture of gratitude and joy for families starting the new year with a new baby.” These celebratory moments offer a semblance of warmth and continuity as we embrace the uncertainties and promises the new year holds.
But the Durows weren’t only a family welcoming a new member as the calendar turned. 10TV informs us that baby Oliver Joseph Heeter claimed the title of first baby born in the central Ohio hospitals under OhioHealth. Oliver was born to parents Maya and Josh at Riverside Methodist Hospital at 1:17 a.m., not far behind baby Durow in heralding the new year…