Meet River Joy, the first baby born at Sanford for 2024

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – This is River Joy. Born into this world at 7 lbs. and 6 oz. at 8:18 a.m. on New Year’s Day. And she is the first baby born at Sanford to ring in the New Year.

“She’s a New Year’s princess,” said Garrett Bohannon, River’s dad. “Absolutely amazing and a long time coming. Feeling all her kicks inside the womb and now she’s out. And just the most precious thing ever.” 

Both Garrett and Katie are happy to be with their bundle of joy. There’s even more emotional attachment to it all. Garrett says his first born died at a young age, so getting to see River and hold her takes on a whole new meaning. 

“My first actually passed away. He was six and a half months old. I have my step-daughter and to see this little bundle of joy here. It means the world to me.” said Bohannon.

According to Sanford, a baby was born at 3 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, but it was unusually quiet at the birth center because no babies were born until the sun was already coming up.

“I started crying when they put her over the drape when she came out.” said Katie Sartin, River’s mom.

“I’m tearing up right now because this is an amazing feeling.” said Bohannon.