Mega Doctor News
South Texas Health System McAllen is celebrating Independence Day with the arrival of an adorable firecracker, Little Eunice, who was born at 9:43 a.m. on the Fourth of July.
Her arrival is extra special, since July 4th is the 363rd least common birthday, according to Parents.com. Each year, only about 6,948 babies are born in the United States on Independence Day. That’s mainly because hospitals are less likely to schedule inductions or C-sections on holidays.
Weighing in at 7 lbs., 7 oz. and measuring 20.5 inches long, Little Eunice was delivered at The Maternity Center at STHS McAllen after an approximate 20-hour labor — arriving a little earlier than her original due date of July 10. For parents Maria Valencia and Pablo Vasquez, giving birth on the Fourth of July was nothing compared to the feeling of being a new parent to their little bundle of joy.
“I’m extremely happy because she was born on a very special day, not just for us, but for the country,” says Maria. “I’m so grateful to STHS McAllen; everyone has been so helpful, and my delivery was smooth.”
Mother and infant are doing well, with their release from the hospital set for Friday, July 5, when Little Eunice will meet her four siblings for a belated Independence Day celebration.
But Little Eunice isn’t STHS McAllen’s only Independence Day baby.
Along with a scheduled C-section and two expectant mothers in labor at the facility, the Maternity Center at STHS McAllen could see a total of four babies for on the Fourth of July.
Reflecting its dedication to providing in quality, compassionate women’s healthcare, South Texas Health System has been honored with the 2023 Five-Star Recipient award by Healthgrades for C-Section Delivery, Hysterectomy and Gynecology Procedures.
The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at STHS McAllen was the first in the Rio Grande Valley when it opened more than 25 years ago.
For more information on the women’s services at STHS Edinburg, including the hospital’s maternity program, visit STHSEdinburg.com.
