MACOMB, Ill. – The McDonough District Hospital Obstetrics Department welcomed the first baby of 2026 on Friday, January 2.
Laura Rose Gay was born at 6:05 p.m. She weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces and measured 20 inches. She was born to Vidalia Seiz and Joseph Gay of Carthage. Laura Rose has two older siblings: Hazel and Ava.
Dr. Tamara Smith delivered the first baby.
The family was presented a congratulatory “First Baby of the Year” gift basket courtesy of the MDH Obstetrics staff and local businesses, including:
- 309 Marketplace
- Clock Tower Community Bank, A Division of Morton Community Bank, Member FDIC
- The Old Dairy
The McDonough County Genealogical Society donated a Bicentennial ornament to the family, celebrating the first baby born as part of McDonough County’s Bicentennial celebration (1826-2026). Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce gift certificates were also included in the basket.
In the Obstetrics Department at MDH you receive personalized care and attention from highly trained, experienced staff in a warm, home-like setting. Our board-certified Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a Certified Nurse Midwife, and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner care for patients from pregnancy through childbirth and beyond.
For more information on the Dolores Kator Switzer Women’s Center (including a virtual tour), the OB/GYN clinic, and the services provided, log onto www.MDH.org/DKSWC.
