WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital announced a record-breaking year for its labor and delivery unit, welcoming 373 babies in 2025 — the highest number of births in the hospital’s history.
For a critical access hospital, this milestone is especially significant. Critical access hospitals play a vital role in providing high-quality, close-to-home care in rural communities, often with smaller teams and limited resources compared to larger facilities. Reaching this level of growth reflects not only increased community trust but also the dedication and expertise of St. Joseph’s obstetrics providers and nursing staff.
“This record year speaks volumes about the confidence families place in our team and the compassionate, high-quality care we provide every day,” said Dr. Kimberly Farry, OB/GYN at WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital. “Whether it’s a routine delivery, a high-risk pregnancy, or moments that require extraordinary sensitivity, our goal is always the same — to care for every mother and baby as if they were our own.”
To commemorate the milestone, a special photo was taken featuring Farry alongside the labor and delivery nursing staff in front of the nursery windows, which have been thoughtfully decorated by Jamie Russell-Herron, OB tech. The display features a tree with a leaf representing every baby born in the unit, including nests with two eggs symbolizing twin births.
Interwoven throughout the display are butterflies — a deeply meaningful tribute honoring families who experienced loss. The butterfly symbolizes the precious babies who were held for only a moment, yet loved for a lifetime, serving as a reminder that every life is cherished and remembered.
“This display beautifully reflects the full journey of obstetric care — joy, hope, remembrance and compassion,” said Amberly Starkey, RN, director of obstetrics and nursery. “It captures the heart of what our labor and delivery team stands for.”
WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital remains committed to providing exceptional maternity care for families across Upshur County and the surrounding region, ensuring that even in a rural setting, patients receive personalized, expert care close to home.
For more information about labor and delivery services at WVU Medicine St. Joseph’s Hospital, visit stj.net or call 304-473-2102.
