UHD Celebrates its 2026 New Year Baby
By Office of the President | Jan 6, 2026
University Hospital at Downstate proudly welcomed its first baby of 2026 on January 1 at 10:17 pm, where, as far as babies go, they enter the world when they are ready! Considering that other babies had already made the news, our Downstate baby had plans of his own.
Baby boy Jamael was born to mom, Marlie, weighing 7.8 pounds and measuring 19.5 inches. His arrival marked a joyful and symbolic beginning to the new year for his family and for the entire Downstate community.
The birth of the first baby of the year holds special meaning at UHD. It represents renewal, hope, and the trust that Brooklyn families place in Downstate to provide compassionate, high-quality care at some of life’s most important moments. Each year, this milestone reminds the institution of its enduring mission to serve as a safety-net hospital, an academic medical center, and a place where we welcome new life with dignity and respect.
Jamael’s birth also reflects the dedication of UHD’s obstetrics team, nurses, midwives, anesthesiologists, pediatricians, and support staff, whose commitment to patient-centered care extends beyond the delivery room. Their work ensures that families feel supported, protected, and confident during one of the most significant experiences of their lives.
We extend our congratulations to Marlie and her family and express our gratitude to the UHD care team for exemplifying Downstate’s values of service, excellence, and community partnership at the beginning of 2026.
Thank you to the OB/GYN team of Kateri Donahoe, M.D., Alerte Saintil, ST; Monica Murphy, RN; Cassey Griffith, RN; Simone Clarke, RN; Ishola Adeyemo, M.D.; Araceli Uribe, RN; and Megan Ebner, M.D., and everyone else who worked to deliver a healthy baby.
We wish baby Jamael and his family health, happiness, and a future filled with promise.