Olympic Medalist Michelle Kwan Welcomes First Child

Michelle Kwan has given birth to her first child.

She announced the arrival of her daughter on Wednesday, January 5, sharing a sweet photo to Instagram. “I’m overjoyed and tears of happiness are streaming down my face as I share the news of the arrival of Kalista Belle Kwan!” the two-time Olympic medalist wrote in her post. “I’ve always wanted to be a mom and, to me, she’s a perfect miracle. I had a hard time picturing what she might look like yet it seems like she’s been in my life forever.”

The former figure skater went on to explain that her journey to motherhood was a challenging one and she went through a very long labor. “I’m glad I never gave up,” she shared. “I feel so grateful to have had the support of so many during this time, including my fertility doctor, doctors and nurses who looked after me, friends that shared their stories, and of course, my family & my [heart] who I could not live without.”

“As people closest to me know, I’m always full of surprises and tend to keep my personal life private. And, I’ve wanted to share this happy news for many months but each milestone seemed to be exciting and daunting at the same time. Each step of the way, I knew that there was still more time needed until I could hold her in my arms,” Kwan continued. “I want to send my best to all the mom’s out there (as we all know, moms rule the world!). And, I wish anyone trying to conceive in any which way (ivf, iui, surrogacy, adoption and naturally) all the success and love. You’re not alone on this path and I’m pulling for you.”

Congratulations to the new mom!