Many people say, “Everything’s bigger in Texas.” Well, on the morning of July 8, 2011, that phrase was proven true again with the birth of 16-pound JaMichael Brown at Good Shepherd Hospital in Longview, Texas.
Born to Janet Johnson and her fiancé, Michael Brown, JaMichael (a portmanteau of both parents’ names) was two feet long (24 inches exactly), and his chest was a whopping 17 inches wide. Brown said that their doctor had estimated that the baby, nicknamed “Moose” by the staff, would be about 12 pounds.
“When he came out, it was a different story,” said Brown, who hopes his son will play football. Mom, on the other hand, is not thinking that far into the future yet.
“Well, I’m just excited that he’s here,” a drowsy Johnson said following caesarean surgery. “This is it. No more.” She’s now a mother of four.
Although the gorgeous newborn is attracting headlines, JaMichael’s not out of the woods yet. Medical staff are trying to increase his blood-sugar levels and get him to breathe on his own.
“I just want him to be healthy,” proud father Brown said.
Once upon a time, people oohed and aahed over large babies. The larger the baby, the better. Today, the public is becoming more enlightened about the problems that can result from obesity. First lady Michelle Obama has promoted the nation’s health consciousness further with her “Let’s Move” program and the USDA’s “My Plate” symbol, and Beyoncé did her part to support Mrs. Obama’s initiative with the song “Move Your Body.” –arnell pharr
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