Rapid City, S.D. (Jan. 2, 2026) – Bailey and Kyle Schulz of Philip, South Dakota, welcomed the first baby of 2026 at Monument Health Rapid City Hospital at 3:14 p.m. on New Year’s Day. Their daughter, Marleigh Anne Schulz, weighed 8 pounds, 4 ounces and measured 20.5 inches long.
The proud parents say they feel very grateful to have their first child arrive as the new year’s first baby. Marleigh’s name holds special family significance — “Mar” honors Bailey’s father Marlin, while “Leigh” pays tribute to Bailey’s mother Leigh. Anne is a three-generation middle name on Bailey’s side of the family.
The New Year’s Day arrival came as a bit of a surprise, as Bailey was scheduled for an induction next week. However, little Marleigh had other plans and decided to make her debut on New Year’s Day instead.
The Schulz family is looking forward to creating new traditions with Marleigh, including what Bailey said will “probably be a birthday party” each New Year’s Day.
About Monument Health
Headquartered in Rapid City, S.D., Monument Health is a community-based health care system with a mission to make a difference, every day. The system offers care in 31 medical specialties and serves 14 communities across western South Dakota and in eastern Wyoming. With over 5,000 physicians and caregivers, Monument Health is composed of 5 hospitals and 40 medical clinics and specialty centers. Monument Health is a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network.