top of page
Search

Prairie Lakes Welcomes First Baby of 2026

Newborn in a floral outfit lies on pink blanket. Text reads: "Prairie Lakes Welcomes First Baby of 2026." Logos in corners.

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - Prairie Lakes Healthcare System celebrated a joyful start to the new year with the arrival of the region's first baby of 2026.


Ariya Russman was born at 1:28 a.m. on Jan. 1, 2026, weighing 8 pounds and 11 ounces. She is the daughter of Carmen Thovson and Quincy Russman. Proud grandparents include Erin and Tony Thovson and Terri Russman.


To mark the occasion, the family was presented with a special gift basket from Prairie Lakes Healthcare System and community partners Backroads Coffee and Power 106 FM.


The birth follows a busy year for the healthcare system, which delivered 688 babies in 2025. Prairie Lakes continues to offer a comprehensive range of obstetric services, including new parent classes and the Baby Café breastfeeding support group.


bottom of page