01/01/2026
Mission Hospital proudly welcomed its first baby of the new year when Jonah Thomas Roberts was born at 3:46 a.m. in the early hours of January 1, 2026. Though Jonah arrived earlier than expected, he is doing well and receiving expert care in Mission Hospital’s Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Jonah was born to parents Shannon Jeffords and Travis Roberts of Marshall, North Carolina. He weighed 4 pounds, 10 ounces at birth and was originally due on February 10, 2026.
Jonah’s name holds special meaning for the family. Jonah Thomas was named in honor of both of Travis’s grandfathers, known affectionately as his “Papaws.”
“I’m terrified, but I know he is with a team that knows how to take care of him,” Shannon shared. “As a mom, you don’t think anybody can take better care of your baby than you can, but in this case, I know he’s in the best hands.”
Mission Hospital is honored to begin 2026 by celebrating the arrival of Jonah Thomas Roberts and wishes the family continued strength and joy as he grows stronger each day.