Two-time Olympic medalist, Michelle Kwan, has announced that she has welcomed her first child, a baby girl named Kalista Belle Kwan.
“I’m overjoyed and tears of happiness are streaming down my face as I share the news of the arrival of Kalista Belle Kwan!” she wrote. “I’ve always wanted to be a mom and, to me, she’s a perfect miracle,” said Kwan, 41, in an Instagram post on Wednesday.
The figure skater chose to keep her pregnancy private, explaining: “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.”
Kwan also shared that her “journey to motherhood” was not easy. “I’m glad I never gave up,” she said despite the challenges.
The celebratory social media post, along with a carousel of newborn baby pictures, pregnancy memories, and more, ended with an encouraging message for mothers everywhere. “Also, 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 🙏🏼.”
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Photo credit: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com