First Baby of 2026 Welcomed at UNC Health Nash

The first baby born at UNC Health Nash always marks a major milestone and meaningful moment for families and their care teams. As the calendar turned and a new year began, 2026 was no exception.

Early Thursday morning on January 1, 2026, the Nash Women’s Center welcomed its first newborn of the year—a baby boy named Karter—born to parents MaKaelah Joyner and Alonte Givens. His arrival offered a celebratory and fitting start to the year for his family, as they said he brought extra joy and excitement on New Year’s Day.

Joyner shared that she was happy to welcome her new baby and grateful that he is healthy, adding that “every contraction was worth it.” Givens shared his excitement as well, saying he was thrilled to welcome the New Year’s first baby.

The care team at the Nash Women’s Center said they were honored to support the family during this special milestone while helping to welcome the first new life of the year at the hospital. Both mother and baby are doing well as they begin this new chapter together.

To help celebrate the occasion, Decadent Gifts and Designs owner Terese Hunt partnered with the Nash Women’s Center to donate a special gift basket for the family. The basket included thoughtfully selected items to support the baby and family during their first days at home, with contributions from local businesses across the community.

Parents Makaelah Joyner and Alonte Givens with New Year’s first baby “Karter”