Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities

2020's first area baby born

CLOVIS - By all accounts, the Chenault family had a pretty good 2019.

Tanna Chenault graduated from Clovis Community College's radiologic technology program, and got a job as an X-ray technician. Her husband Chet celebrated seven years with the Clovis Fire Department in July with news he was the national Veterans of Foreign Wars firefighter of the year.

So far, 2020 is looking pretty good for the Chenaults as well. Landon Ray Chenault joined the family early when he was Plains Regional Medical Center's first delivery of 2020 late Wednesday night.

Landon was born at 11:44 p.m. Jan. 1, 18.5 inches long and 5 pounds, 11 ounces. He is the Chenaults' third child, joining 6-year-old Tryan and 4-year-old Easton.

"It was a little rough compared to the other two," Tanna Chenault said Friday. "We had a lot more going on. He decided he was going to surprise us early."

Landon's expected due date was Feb. 8, and with the holiday season the family really hadn't done much beyond a small online order for baby gear. Now, they're scrambling a little more than they anticipated.

"Luckily, he's my third boy, so we have a bunch of stuff ready in storage," Chet Chenault said. "We just need to get it out of storage, get it washed."

The family's immediate concern as December closed out was some sickness, as Tanna was battling the flu.

"I was sick and all of a sudden, I'm having contractions," Tanna said. "It all happened really quick. We were worried with him coming at 34 weeks, but he's bounced back and recovered. Other than his size, you wouldn't tell he was premature at all. He's the most content baby we've had."

Landon underwent standard tests for a premature birth, but was off of monitors on Friday with the family anticipating going home over the weekend. Tanna Chenault said the staff, particularly their delivery nurse, deserved a great deal of credit for their work given the circumstances.

The family received a Radio Flyer covered wagon full of various gifts put together by donations staff collected throughout the community.

In total, PRMC delivered 1,075 newborns in 2019.

 
 
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