A new chapter began for parents Chyann Walter and Bryce Kempf when their daughter, Remington Lorraine Kempf, was born at 2:05 a.m. on January 1, 2026. Weighing in at 7 pounds and measuring 20 1/4 inches, Remy is not only their first child but also the first baby of the new year born at MyMichigan Medical Center in Midland.
Chyann, who had a scheduled C-section for January 5, went into labor unexpectedly at home in Standish around 10 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. “That’s when we rushed to the hospital here in Midland,” Bryce recalled. They arrived at the hospital shortly after midnight, and within an hour, they were in the operating room with Dr. Logan Steffke, who delivered Remy by C-section.
The couple expressed overwhelming joy at the arrival of their daughter. “Best feeling in the world. She’s my little bundle of joy,” Chyann said, while Bryce added, “Honestly, it feels great. It’s a great feeling to be a dad.” The surprise of having the first baby of the year added an unexpected thrill to their experience. “I was definitely surprised. I definitely was not expecting that news,” Chyann remarked.
As a first grandchild for both sides of the family, Remy is cherished by her grandparents. The hospital provided gifts for the newborn, including blankets, books, and formula, further celebrating her arrival.
The family is now looking forward to heading home by Wednesday, a moment Bryce described as a “wonderful New Year’s gift.” Chyann and Bryce eagerly anticipate the future with their new daughter, filled with hope and excitement for the memories they will create together in the years to come.
