LAKE CHELAN HEALTH HOSPITAL WELCOMES FIRST BABY OF 2026

Chelan, WA – Tuesday January 2, 2026 — 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 hard at work welcoming 2026’s first baby.

Baby boy Taylor Owyn Denney was born in the early morning hours of January 1, 2026, to proud first-time parents Kaitlynn Miller and Daytin Denney. The arrival of the New Year’s baby is always a special occasion, and this year’s first delivery brought smiles to both family and staff— especially for Obstetrics Nurse Juliana England and Columbia Valley Community Health (CVCH), Dr. Hippe and resident Dr. Piper, who were part of the delivery team.

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

In celebration, the family was presented with the annual New Year’s Baby Basket, generously donated by Lake Chelan Health Hospital Guild B. Pictured are Kaitlynn and Daytin Denney alongside Juliana England, OB Labor and Delivery nurse and manager.

The Denney family expressed appreciation for their experience in the hospital’s Labor and Delivery unit. The unit features four spacious suites, each designed to provide comfort, privacy, and ample space for family and care teams to support growing families. Since moving into its new facility three years ago, Lake Chelan Health Hospital has provided 24-hour hospital services and continues to support growing families—from birth in Labor and Delivery to ongoing care at Lake Chelan Health Pediatric Care.

In 2025, Lake Chelan Health Hospital welcomed more than 75 babies from communities throughout the region—continuing its commitment to providing high-quality, close-to-home maternity care.

The Lake Chelan Health Hospital Guild B has a long tradition of bringing joy to growing families. Established in 1947, this non-profit organization has donated over $200,000 to the hospital, funding essential equipment and the cherished New Year’s baby basket.