First baby of 2026 arrives at Cox Medical Center Branson

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The wait is over! Cox Medical Center Branson proudly welcomed its first baby of 2026, an adorable little boy.

Parents Gracie Fleetwood and Jacob Lirley welcomed Bennett Hunter Fleetwood into the world at 12:22 p.m. on Jan. 2, 2026. Bennett weighed a healthy 8 pounds, 12 ounces, and measured 21 inches long. 

“I was so surprised to learn we had the first baby of the new year,” Gracie shared. “This has been an incredible experience, and we are so grateful for the care team who went above and beyond.” 

This milestone is especially meaningful for the hospital family, as Gracie works in the laboratory at Cox Medical Center Branson. 

To celebrate, the hospital’s Labor and Delivery team, together with the Cox Branson Auxiliary, presented the family with a gift basket filled with blankets, diapers, wipes, books and toys. 

Welcome to the world, baby Bennett! What a wonderful way to begin 2026!