Bronson Welcomes First Babies of 2020

Two southwest Michigan families are celebrating extra-special 2020 deliveries. On New Year’s Day, their babies were the first to be born at the Bronson BirthPlace in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo.

In Battle Creek, a baby boy, Douglas Kristen Blowers, was born at 4:43 a.m. weighing 7 lbs., 12 oz. The proud parents are Brandi Pier of Battle Creek and Andrew Blowers of Marshall.

Although the baby was due on January 1, Douglas’ mom was surprised her little one arrived right on schedule. “I was having pain, but I didn’t realize I was having contractions,” Brandi said. “When I went to my doctor’s appointment, she said I needed to get to the hospital!”

Douglas’ father, Andrew Blowers of Marshall, was especially happy and proud to have the first baby of 2020 in Battle Creek. The new parents hope Douglas grows up happy and healthy and does well in school.

In Kalamazoo, a baby girl, Marlee Rai Wiitanen, was born at 1:39 a.m., weighing 7 lbs., 13 oz. Her parents are Zach and Amberlee Wiitanen from Scotts.

Baby Marlee was due on January 12, but Amberlee’s water broke on the way to her regularly scheduled doctor’s appointment on New Year’s Eve. “My doctor sent me right over to the BirthPlace,” she said.

“We were all so excited to have a New Year’s baby. My birthday is Dec. 29 and my son’s is Dec. 30, so we think she wanted her own day and her own year,” said Amberlee, laughing.

Marlee joins a big brother and big sister. “They met her yesterday and are already giving her lots of hugs and kisses,” said Amberlee.