As Whitehorse locals ushered in the new year, one family received an extra-special gift – the arrival of a baby girl. The newborn, named Theia Joyce Klassen, made her entrance at 12:41 a.m. on January 1st at Whitehorse General Hospital, becoming the first baby born in 2026 not just in Whitehorse but across the entire Yukon territory. Weighing in at eight pounds and six ounces, Theia brought joy to her parents, Jamie-Lee and Brayden Klassen.
Reflecting on the unexpected timing, Jamie-Lee mentioned that Theia’s due date was supposed to be on January 3rd, sharing her hope for a January-born baby to potentially excel in sports. Brayden humorously added that their daughter had followed their request to stay until January, at least “bare minimum.” The realization that Theia could be the territory’s first baby of the year only struck them once they were at the hospital, with Brayden noting the absence of other deliveries at that time.
Hospital staff confirmed Theia’s status as the Yukon’s inaugural birth of the year. Jamie-Lee expressed that this unique experience would be a cherished tale in their family’s history, emphasizing the significance of Theia’s birth on New Year’s as a lifelong source of celebration. The Klassens look forward to sharing this remarkable moment with Theia as she grows up.