ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – Cayuga Birthplace has announced its first baby of 2025.

Arfa Khizar was born at 3:28 p.m. on New Year’s Day at Cayuga Medical Center. Hosptial officials say the 7.6 pound, 19-inch-long Baby Arfa was born a day early to Khizar and Wajeeha Mairaj, of Ithaca.

Wajeeha Mairaj and baby Arfa Khizar, born 1/1/25

“I had wished that I would deliver her on the first,” said Wajeeha in a statement. “[I am] feeling blessed and happy.”

Wajeeha praised her care team for their kindness and compassion in helping to deliver the couple’s second child.