Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital Welcomes First Baby of the New Year

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital kicked off the new year early by welcoming its first baby of 2025! Emily Elisabeth arrived at 1:39 a.m., weighing 6 pounds, 12 ounces, and measuring 19.5 inches long. She is the daughter of Katie and Sebastian Olivera of The Woodlands.

Baby Emily’s early arrival made for a memorable transition into the new year.

“We never would have imagined that we’d be in this position. Her due date was January 13, so we weren’t really thinking New Year’s!” said Katie.

OBGYN Katherine Sullivan, M.D., had predicted the family might welcome their baby in the coming week, but no one expected Emily’s speedy arrival and New Year’s debut.

“We had seen Dr. Sullivan just yesterday morning for a routine visit. Although she couldn’t give us an exact day, we anticipated it would be three or four more days. Then, suddenly, it happened that night!” said Sebastian.

For the Oliveras, spending time with family and waiting for the ball to drop is their typical New Year’s celebration. This year, Sebastian’s parents traveled to Houston from Dallas to join in the festivities. As the family gathered to enjoy homemade Argentinian food, baby Emily decided it was time to make her entrance.

“They were grilling outdoors—we were about to eat some Argentinian grilled meat, and then we had to leave!” Katie commented.

This year, baby Emily tops the list of special memories for Katie, Sebastian, and their family. Emily is the first grandchild of Sebastian’s parents and shares a middle name with her grandmother.

As for future New Year’s traditions, the Oliveras are looking forward to celebrating Emily’s special day each year.

“It’s always hard to celebrate birthdays on a holiday, but it’s pretty special that every year she’ll have a big party, and the world gets to celebrate with her! We look forward to ensuring that she’s acknowledged and not just lumped into the holiday,” Katie said.

Both Katie and Sebastian expressed their gratitude for the dedicated medical team and staff at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital.

“From Dr. Sullivan to the nurses, everyone was fantastic! They deserve to be recognized,” the Oliveras said.

Katie and Sebastian are excited to share the story of Emily’s New Year’s debut with her when she’s old enough to appreciate it.

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