Sarasota Memorial welcomes county’s New Year’s baby
 Sarasota Memorial Hospital welcomed New Year’s baby Darius Martin Simpson into the world at 3:22 a.m. Today – and celebrated Sarasota County’s first birth in 2010.
His parents, Paige Simpson and Victor Rengel, came to the hospital about 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve after Paige began having contractions. She wasn’t due till next week, but at midnight, she was about 6 centimeters dilated and looking forward to delivering a happy, healthy New Year’s baby.
“At 12 (midnight), I can remember looking at the clock and saying, ‘Oh man, there goes our tax deduction,’ “ said Paige, 24, of Sarasota. “But I'm so happy. It’s been very exciting having the New Year’s baby.”
 In the next room, Amy and Simon Bates cuddled their firstborn, Liam, the second baby born in the New Year in Sarasota County. They too had come to the hospital about 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, but her doctor said she could return home shortly after midnight when her labor did not progress. Liam, however, had other ideas and it wasn’t long before they were back at the hospital.
“From the time we got to Labor & Delivery, I think it took 8 minutes,” Amy said. “Three pushes and Liam was ready to greet the world.”
 Both baby boys are healthy and strong. Liam, born at 3:58 a.m., weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounce, while Darius weighed 7 pounds, 3 ounces. Darius is Paige's second child. She has another son, 3-year-old Jeremiah, who is eager to meet his younger brother.
Nurses at the hospital gave both families New Year’s baskets with baby supplies and a variety of donated gifts and services.
Date Published: January 1, 2010
Media Contact: Kim Savage
Phone: (941) 917-6271 |
