Breanna’s Birth Story at CMC: A Long-Awaited Miracle

After a lengthy battle with infertility and loss, Breanna Williamson found hope again at Cumberland Medical Center. After years of waiting and praying, she welcomed her daughter, Kennedy Claire, on February 16, 2026. Breanna and her husband, Brandon, started trying to start their family in 2024. They endured two devastating losses, one in 2024 and another the following year. During that time, Breanna traveled to Knoxville for treatment while navigating grief and uncertainty.

In May 2025, when she learned she was pregnant with Kennedy, she felt peace and renewed hope.

Trusted Care Close to Home

At 12 weeks, Breanna chose to continue her care with Cumberland Women’s Health and selected Andrew Szaflarski, MD, as her OB/GYN. Breanna said she knew right away she was in the right place.

“Dr. Andrew Szaflarski is the most positive doctor I have ever met,” Breanna said. “I had heard so many good things about Cumberland Women’s Health and Cumberland Medical Center. I wanted to stay home and stay local, and they made that possible.”

She saw Dr. Andrew Szaflarski weekly and received advanced ultrasound care through Covenant Health’s network at Fort Sanders Perinatal Center. Each visit brought comfort and reassurance. “He was always careful and encouraging,” she said. “I felt safe.”

Dr. Szaflarski said, “Breanna showed incredible strength throughout her pregnancy. Our team’s goal is to give every parent a safe, supportive experience. We were honored to care for her and help welcome her daughter.”

A Special Welcome for Baby Kennedy

During recovery, Breanna found steady support from Lisa, a member of the Cumberland Medical Center postpartum team. “She was my saving grace,” Breanna said. “She checked on me, helped with breastfeeding, and made sure I understood everything.”

The night before delivery, Breanna walked into a sweet surprise. Her sister and her work family decorated her private birth suite with balloons, snacks and warm touches to make the room feel personal and calm. She shared her gratitude and gave special thanks to Dana Ragle, RN and Labor and Delivery Manager, for helping make the experience possible. “It made everything feel so special,” Breanna said.

Strength Through Labor

Breanna’s delivery experience was intense. Kennedy was stuck on her pelvis, and Breanna pushed for three hours while trying various positions. The nurses and Dr. Szaflarski stayed by her side, closely monitoring and offering supportive birthing techniques.

“He kept saying, ‘You can do this. You are strong. You have got this,’” she said.

Expert Care When It Matters Most

When Kennedy was born, she had difficulty breathing. Even then, Breanna stayed calm because she trusted the team around her. “I knew we were in the best hands,” she said.

The nurses acted fast, providing CPAP and oxygen. Within seconds, Kennedy began improving, and additional pediatric support arrived. Within an hour, Kennedy was stable, breathing well and resting on Breanna’s chest. “The nurses and physicians were all so amazing,” Breanna said. “They reacted so fast. They took the best care of my baby.”

Today, newborn Kennedy Claire is healthy, growing, and deeply loved. “Everything is my favorite part of being a mom,” Breanna said. “She is my favorite person. The way she looks at me is comforting.”

Compassionate Care for Every Stage of Motherhood

From expert obstetric care to breastfeeding support, childbirth education, and specialized perinatal services, Covenant Health’s network is built to walk beside you, empower you and celebrate you.

Breanna shared, “Ask questions. Go to the free childbirth classes and breastfeeding classes. It can feel overwhelming, but it is so rewarding. Cumberland Medical Center, Cumberland Women’s Health and Fort Sanders Perinatal Center are the best. They will do the absolute best to provide the care you need.”

Take the next step in your journey with confidence. Explore the Covenant Health Women’s Health Network and connect with providers who listen and care.