Wednesday, January 4, 2017 – Michelle Kukowski expected to have a quick delivery with her fifth child, but she was unprepared for just how quickly.
“The staff met me at the emergency room doors, and within five minutes, she was here,” Kukowski said.
Emma Lyn Kukowski was born on January 2, 2017, at 11:20 p.m. Her parents are Michelle and Kyle Kukowski from Harvey, N.D. Emma was the first baby born in 2017 at Jamestown Regional Medical Center.
And, although Michelle had quick deliveries with all of her other children, Emma was the fastest delivery she had yet. “I knew I might deliver quickly. So, I came into Jamestown just to avoid the bad roads and I am glad I did.”
To certainly avoid traveling on wintery roads, Michelle and her family drove to Jamestown the week before her due date. They stayed with friends and family.
NEW YEAR’S BABY
Michelle, a 3rd-grade teacher in Harvey, said she initially wanted to have her baby in 2016. She wanted the baby to arrive before the new school year started. Once that date passed, however, the thought of a New Year’s baby seemed fun. “My friends and family kept telling me to try and have her on New Year’s to ring in the New Year with a new baby,” Michelle said.
The nurses always look forward to the first baby of the year.
“It’s certainly fun and exciting to start a new year with a new life,” said Family BirthPlace Manager Emily Woodley.
Emma will be welcomed home by five siblings and a stepbrother. They range in age from three to 14 years old.
The siblings are excited to meet the new baby, Michelle said.
“My three year old has been talking non-stop about holding and feeding her baby sister,” Michelle said. “It will certainly be nice for us all to be together. I am excited to see all of my kids’ reactions.”