First baby of 2020 born at Saint Francis Healthcare

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO. ­— A baby boy who made his debut into the world at 4:36 a.m. is the first baby of 2020 born at Saint Francis Healthcare System’s Family BirthPlace.

Proud parents Landon Johnson and Savannah Shaffer welcomed their first child, Ari Thomas Johnson, early on January 1. The Marble Hill couple says baby Ari is happy and healthy and doesn’t cry much.

Certified Nurse Midwife Megan Keeney, RN, FNP-BC, CNM, delivered 7 pound and 10 ounce, 19 3⁄4 inches long Ari.

Baby Ari has several cousins to grow up with as he is the fifth of six grandkids on his mother’s family’s side with a cousin on the way. He is the second grandchild on his father’s side.

Landon and Savannah say they received great medical care at the Family BirthPlace and every- one has been very helpful.

The Family BirthPlace finished 2019 with 1184 babies including 22 sets of twins and one set of triplets.