Pictured from left to right: Dakota Burkhardt and Nicole Hartness recently welcomed Khione’ Noelle Hartness-Burkhardt into the world on Jan. 1, 2021, weighing in at 8 lbs., 8 oz., and 19 inches long. Khione’ was the first baby to be born in the New Year at White River Medical Center. / Image via WRMC
After waiting two days past her due date, 24-hours of labor, and a New Year’s kiss at midnight, Khione’ Noelle Hartness-Burkhardt made her arrival as the first baby born at White River Medical Center (WRMC) in 2021. Khione was born at 2:28 a.m. on Jan. 1, weighing in at 8 lbs., 8 oz., and 19 inches long.
Nicole Hartness and Dakota Burkhardt, Khione’s parents, expected her arrival on December 29, 2020, but were excited to say that their rainbow baby girl had her own perfect timeline.
Ringing in the New Year with her arrival, Khione’s delivery was just seven days before her father’s birthday, making her arrival even more special.
Khione’ is Nicole and Dakota’s firstborn child, and they could not be more grateful for her.
“After all the challenges 2020 brought upon us, Khione’ is a blessing to us,” the couple said in a release.
Nicole also complemented the Labor and Delivery staff at WRMC.
“The staff was outstanding and made us feel comfortable during such a trying time, especially in the medical field,” she said. “Dr. Appleget is so amazing at what she does; you can tell she takes pride in her career.”
Mom, Dad, and daughter are home, and all doing well. Nicole and Dakota are excited to start off the New Year with their new bundle of joy.
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