The arrival of a baby is always a joyous milestone, but the excitement is amplified when it aligns with New Year’s Day. Shortly after midnight on Tuesday, Mereseini Likucokocoko welcomed her baby boy at the Suva Colonial War Memorial Hospital, arriving 11 days earlier than expected. The newborn weighed 2.85 kilograms.
Despite experiencing complications and discomfort during labor, Ms. Likucokocoko expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the midwives and medical staff for their support. “It was a surprise; we did not expect him until January 11, but I thank God for this healthy gift,” she shared. “This is a moment our family will cherish forever as we are all overjoyed by the unexpected arrival.”
Meanwhile, in Nadi, Akeneta Ranadi, 29, celebrated the birth of her daughter at Nadi Hospital, occurring earlier than her due date of January 8. “It’s a blessing to give birth on New Year’s Day,” Ms. Ranadi remarked, as her daughter weighed in at 3.78 kg. She viewed this event as the first blessing of the year and expressed her hopes for even more blessings to come. Living alone with her children while her partner works abroad, she added, “I am so grateful for the new arrival; this is a sign of prosperity.”
Additionally, in the North, Senimili Duavokavoka from Ligau Village on Kia Island also welcomed a son, Suliasi Vunibola Turaganivalu, after being rushed to Labasa Hospital on New Year’s Eve. He was born at 2 a.m., weighing 3.7 kg. Ms. Duavokavoka described her son as the perfect gift who completes their family. “When I heard his first cry, I felt relief and joy,” she said, expressing her gratitude. Her husband, Seresio Turaganivlau, echoed her sentiments, feeling immense pride as a father.
These heartfelt stories reflect the joy and hope that new life brings, especially at the beginning of a new year. Each family views their newborn as a blessing, filling them with optimism for the future and marking the start of what they hope will be a prosperous year ahead.
The arrival of children on this symbolic day serves as a reminder of new beginnings, and communities rally around these families to share in their happiness. It’s a beautiful time to celebrate the potential and opportunities that lie ahead.
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