Belize welcomed its symbolic first citizen of 2026 with the arrival of baby Chosen at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City. The historic birth occurred at 2:03 p.m. on January 1st, with the infant weighing seven pounds and four ounces.
Twenty-seven-year-old Cliffara Ramos experienced what she described as an ‘extra special’ delivery, marking the first female birth in her family in thirteen years. ‘I was nervous but ultimately happy that my baby arrived healthy and strong. By the grace of God, we are both okay,’ Ramos shared with emotional gratitude.
The distinctive name ‘Chosen’ held profound meaning for the mother, who revealed: ‘From ever since, whether it was a boy or girl, I said my baby’s name would be Chosen. I always believed I would have children.’
Medical oversight was provided by Dr. Mikael Gilharry, who explained the delivery process: ‘By noon, we recognized she wasn’t experiencing further dilation despite intense pains. We contacted Dr. Nicholas and performed an emergency C-section that resulted in a healthy female neonate without complications.’
The hospital staff received high praise from Ramos, who noted: ‘KHMH workers, doctors and nurses who attended to me were exceptionally sweet. I literally cannot complain.’
Continuing a cherished national tradition, Santiago Castillo Limited presented the family with essential supplies for the infant’s first hundred days. Marketing Manager Aisha Trapp announced: ‘We gift a case of diapers and wipes to the first baby born each year. This instance is particularly special as only one birth occurred at KHMH on New Year’s Day. We will identify and similarly gift first babies in other public hospitals nationwide.’
Though Ramos’ due date was several days later, baby Chosen emerged as the sole newborn at the facility on January 1st, cementing her place as Belize’s inaugural infant of the new year.