Canyon Vista Medical Center welcomed its first baby of the new year just twenty minutes into 2026, marking a joyful beginning for one local family and the greater Cochise County community.

Born at 12:20 a.m. on January 1, Avaya Grace arrived weighing 6 pounds, 13 ounces and measuring 18.5 inches long. For her parents, Brittany and Steven, the moment was filled with relief, gratitude, and happiness as they welcomed a healthy baby girl.

“The night nurses told me I was the only one in labor and delivery,” Brittany shared. “That’s how I found out she would be the first baby of the year.”

Avaya’s name holds special meaning for the family. “Avaya Grace means God is my father,” Brittany said. When asked to describe her newborn daughter, she chose three heartfelt words: loved, precious, and blessed.

Brittany chose Canyon Vista Medical Center for her delivery because of the hospital’s experienced staff and commitment to patient safety. Throughout her stay, she said the care team provided constant reassurance and support during one of life’s most meaningful moments.

“The care was very attentive, supportive, and caring,” she said, noting the impact of several team members who helped guide her through delivery, including delivery nurses Monique and Dani, Charge Nurse Beth, OB Tech Bricella, and OB/GYN Dr. Paige Brainard.

Canyon Vista Medical Center’s Women and Newborn Services team is dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care close to home, supporting families from delivery through the earliest days of life.

“We have a remarkable team of clinical and support staff who are dedicated to cultivating a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment for mothers and their babies,” said Marie Iverson, Director of Women and Newborn Services at CVMC. “Helping our community’s families welcome their newest additions is one of our greatest privileges.”

As the family begins this new chapter, Brittany shared her hopes for the year ahead. “We’re looking forward to watching our baby grow,” she said. “My wish for her in 2026 is a healthy and happy start to life, surrounded by love, safety, and support.”

Canyon Vista Medical Center is honored to have been part of Avaya Grace’s first moments and to share in celebrating the first new life of 2026.