Meet Freeman’s first baby of the new year

JOPLIN, Mo. – The first baby of the new year, Dustin J, arrived at 11:19 am Sunday, January 1, 2023, at the Freeman West campus. He weighed 8 pounds and 0.7 ounces and measured 21.3 inches in length. His parents, Laura and David Braker of Jasper, are excited about their new arrival.

“We just think he is so special,” said a smiling Laura. Dustin J is the couple’s eighth child.

Following tradition, the first baby born each year receives a special baby gift basket courtesy of Freeman Health System. Dustin J will also go home with stuffed animals, onesies and lots of toys.