From Adventist Health Ukiah Valley
The New Year celebration for one local family was extra special as they welcomed the first baby of 2025 in Mendocino County. Meet our newest neighbor, Baby Duwehni, who made his grand entrance a little after the ball dropped on Jan. 1, at exactly 1:34 a.m. at Adventist Health Ukiah Valley’s Family Birth Center.
Coming in at 7 pounds, 8 ounces and 19 inches tall, Baby Duwehni’s proud parents, mom Xelin Fred-Mota and dad Chunn Carrillo, are overjoyed to welcome their third bundle of joy during such a special time.
First baby of 2025, Baby Duwehni (Contributed)While the rest of the community was waiting for the ball to drop and getting ready for the festivities, Fred-Mota came to the Family Birth Center at 3 p.m., with initial signs of labor, but no contractions yet. The plan was to monitor her in case Baby Duwehni was ready to come out. However, during that time, the baby’s heart rate started dropping, and the care team decided it was best to proceed with an emergency C-section to keep mom and baby safe.
While things weren’t as she originally planned, Fred-Mota says she felt reassured and taken care of the entire time.
“Dr. Emily Bender really put me at ease and informed me every step of the way. She helped calm me down and let me know things will be alright. I trusted her and my team completely. It was a blessing that I’ve seen Dr. Bender throughout my pregnancy, so we’ve already built that relationship and trust that allowed me to be confident that my baby and I were in good hands.”
Honoring his Native American heritage, Baby Duwehni was snuggled in a handcrafted baby cradle, which was passed on from his dad. Making baby cradles is part of a rich cultural tradition that has been passed down for generations. The baskets symbolize the love and protection of children and are made from local wood. Typically, the making of the basket does not commence until after the baby is born to make sure it’s a perfect fit. Baby Duwehni’s family is excited to get together to make his own special cradle. The quilt, lovingly handmade by a member of the labor and delivery team, is the perfect addition to mark this special day and remind him how much he is loved.
Baby Duwehni’s name, which means “a long time ago,” is also in honor of his heritage, and both mom and dad can’t wait to introduce him to their traditions.
Little Duwehni was, in fact, a little late and was due three days before the new year. It turns out he was getting impatient and was just making sure to pick the perfect time for his arrival. And it was perfect in every way. In fact, in their tradition, welcoming the New Year’s is done quite differently. “It’s our traditional gathering; we spend all day dancing, praying and being sober. It’s our way of getting rid of the bad and praying for all the good things for the new year. So Duwehni’s birthday will already be a celebration, a big birthday party, complete with all our family to celebrate. The whole community will celebrate his birthday!”
As is tradition at the hospital, the first baby of the year was showered with presents by hospital staff. (Contributed)Mom and Dad said they had the best experience at the Family Birth Center. “I’ve had two other deliveries, and this was the best experience we’ve ever had. This was my first time being a patient here and we’re so glad we chose to come here. It wasn’t exactly how we planned it, but the nurses and Dr. Bender really took care of us and made us feel special. Every nurse we’ve encountered has been very kind and caring and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. We’re so grateful to everyone,” shares mom.
As is tradition at the hospital, the first baby of the year was also showered with not just love but also lots of presents by the hospital. They received a special “First Baby Basket” stuffed with receiving blankets, toys, goodies and gifts for the new parents and baby, including a handmade quilt.
The arrival of the New Year’s baby is a much-anticipated event at the Family Birth Center, explains Taff Cheneweth, nurse manager for Adventist Health Ukiah Valley’s Family Birth Center. “Our team works very hard to make their experience meaningful. They spend many months putting together the quilt and other handmade items, so our families know how much we appreciate their trust and allowing us the privilege to be part of such a special moment in their lives.”
Adventist Health Ukiah Valley’s Family Birth Center delivers over 800 babies every year. To learn more about birthing classes or take a virtual tour, visit www.adventisthealth.org/ukiah-valley/services/family-birth-center/
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