Theo Paluch

On Thursday, November 7, 2019, at 4:04 PM, a son, Theo TE Paluch, was born to Casey and Daniel Paluch at the Granite Falls Hospital in Granite Falls, Minnesota. The first time parents hold a new child is one of the happiest moments possible, the first time they see a new life, a new family member, a son. Yet, the days surrounding Theo’s birth weren’t exactly as expected.

The first 20 weeks of pregnancy had gone smoothly for Casey and excitement for a new bundle of joy blossomed in their family. On Wednesday, Casey attended her 20 week checkup that started out completely normal, asking how Casey was feeling, but ended with an unsuccessful attempt to find a heartbeat. Once Daniel had been notified, they made their way to Granite Falls Hospital where another doppler and two ultrasounds confirmed the worst news they could have imagined. It was definitive that there was no heartbeat. After additional tests, the doctors determined that it had likely been several weeks since little Theo’s heart had stopped . To avoid the danger of Casey becoming sick due to the length of time that had passed, the couple took a short trip home after hearing the hardest news of their lives. They prepared for the day to follow and were so kindly helped with prayer by Father Ron, before returning to the hospital that same night. Medication was started immediately to help begin labor, and contractions began around noon on Thursday, four hours prior to the birth of their son. Their beautiful baby boy. The boy who would have made Ajax a big brother, would have been a Jacks and Vikes fan with Daddy, the boy who would have had the brilliance of his Mommy and the ability to make both of his parents melt with his laughter and hugs.

It is difficult for his family to understand just yet. They will think of what could have been, as the family of another beautiful child on this earth. However, they will remember that he is in the arms of God and that they will hold their baby again one day. For now they will remember that they are still his parents and after patiently waiting, they will have the chance to cuddle and read to him, change his butt, and do splish-splash (bath time). They will get to cheer on the Vikes, and maybe even learn a couple naughty words when they lose. Although it is unknown why they did not have longer with their son, they will continue to have faith in God’s plan, know that the love in their hearts is greater than before, and treasure the feelings, hopes, and dreams that accompanied the 20 weeks in Theo’s presence.

A special thank you to Theo’s grandparents for their support, Father Ron, Dr. Eakes and his wife Debbie, their doula, their midwife, Eileen, and the nurses, Desiree and Trina that helped at the hospital, and to those who sent flowers or kind words.

Please pray for our baby boy who now goes to live with our God. Sweet baby Theo, Mommy and Daddy love you so very, very much.