Lake Chelan Health Hospital welcomes first baby of 2026

CHELAN –  While many in the community were still sleeping in after ringing in the New Year, the Labor and Delivery team at Lake Chelan Health Hospital was already at work welcoming 2026’s first baby.

Taylor Owyn Denney, a baby boy, was born to first-time parents Kaitlynn Miller and Daytin Denney while much of the community was still celebrating the holiday. Hospital staff said the New Year’s baby is always a meaningful milestone for families and caregivers alike.

“The team did really good and made it easy on us, which was much appreciated,” the parents said.

Members of the delivery team included Obstetrics Nurse and Labor and Delivery Manager Juliana England, Columbia Valley Community Health physician Dr. Hippe, and resident Dr. Piper.

To commemorate the occasion, the Denney family received the hospital’s annual New Year’s Baby Basket, donated by Lake Chelan Health Hospital Guild B.

The family expressed appreciation for their experience in the hospital’s Labor and Delivery unit, which includes four private suites designed to provide comfort and space for families and care teams. Since opening its new facility three years ago, Lake Chelan Health Hospital has provided 24-hour hospital services and continues to support families from delivery through ongoing pediatric care.

In 2025, the hospital welcomed more than 75 babies from communities throughout the region.

Lake Chelan Health Hospital Guild B, established in 1947, has a long tradition of supporting the hospital and local families. The nonprofit organization has donated more than $200,000 to fund essential equipment and programs, including the New Year’s baby basket.