Derek Eduardo Gonzalez Ruiz was the first baby born in Essex County in 2024.
He was delivered at Erie Shores Healthcare in Leamington at 4:52 a.m. on January 1, 2024. He weighed 7 lbs 6 oz.
Proud parents Zoila Ruiz Alceda and Jose Gonzalez of Leamington are overjoyed with the arrival of their son.
"The birth of Derek Eduardo is a wonderful blessing for us to start the New Year. We are grateful to the exceptional care team at Erie Shores HealthCare for making our experience so memorable," said the parents.
The Erie Shores Health Foundation presented the family with gifts donated by local businesses and the nurses on the obstetrics unit.
The first baby born at Windsor Regional Hospital arrived at 9:49 a.m.