Mariel Galan Garcia made her debut as the first baby born in 2026 at Glacial Ridge Hospital at 7:55 a.m. on Monday, January 5. She is the daughter of Monica and Oscar of Benson and weighed 7 pounds, 2.8 ounces, measuring 19 inches long. To celebrate her special arrival, Mariel and her family received a collection of gifts generously donated by area businesses, including a jogging stroller from Glacial Ridge Health System.

Pictured with the proud parents and their newborn are, from left, Kayleigh Horn, RN; Josie Syverson, M.D., Family Medicine with Obstetrics; and Nichole Asmus, RN.

If you’re expecting or planning to expand your family, you’re invited to visit ChildBirthAndMore.org to meet the OB doctors and certified nurse midwife at your hometown hospital. Check out the resources available on the site, schedule a tour, or register for expectant parenting classes. Our staff would be honored to care for you and your family.