Sonia Gashi was born 7 lb. 7 oz. and 19.7 inches, April 13, 2008 - just one day fter St. Luke's Hospital became a member of St. Vincent's HealthCare. Sonia was born at 11:06 a.m. to parents Sokul and Anali. She was delivered by Dr. Paul Rebenack, President of St. Luke's Medical Staff, who also performed the first patient surgery later that afternoon.
Natives of Berat, Albania, the Gashis moved to Jacksonville four years ago after being chosen to participate in the U.S. Diversity Immigrant Visa Program. Starting a family 'is a dream come true,' as they embark on a new beginning here in the United States, Anali Gashi said.
With most of the Gashi family still in their home country, the family was thankful for the help and attentiveness of the Family Birth Place staff, the new mother said. "I'm grateful from the bottom of my heart to my nurse, Caroline, and the many people who were available to help me during this time."
St. Luke's chief Operating Officer Michael Holmes and Chief Nursing Officer Crystal Beckford presented the couple with a "First Baby" gift basket that included a variety of newborn items and diapers.
Though the morning began with only two patients, the Family Birth Place had admitted five more expectant mothers by the end of the afternoon.
