Friday, April 19th, two pink lines appeared. I was overwhelmed with joy and excitement to start your journey. Growing you was a blessing. On April 21st, the doctors confirmed the pregnancy. We got the results back on May 7th, and your big sister Neiko was so proud to read the news, exclaiming, "You're having a… baby boy!" The house was filled with excitement.

On May 8th, we had your first ultrasound and shared the news with family. By May 18th, we officially announced, "Come Christmas, we will be a FAMILY of 6!" We had many adventures, talking about you and getting excited for your arrival. On August 1st, during your anatomy scan, not only did we confirm you were a boy, but we also saw your heart flicker and your little body moving. Just knowing you were safe and growing in Mommy's tummy brought so much peace.

On October 3rd, I made you a name sign for your bedroom, so excited to create an amazing space for you to come home to. On October 2nd, we scheduled your "Arrival Day" for November 27th, 2024. The countdown began — in just 56 days, you would be in our arms, ready to be embraced by your three big sisters, Mommy, and Daddy. We started preparing for your arrival.

On November 21st, 2024, I went in for a routine doctor's appointment — the last one before your scheduled birth. Only six short days until we would snuggle you in our arms. But God had a different plan for you. Your arrival came much quicker than expected. Daddy was given just a 30-minute notice to load your big sisters in the car and make it in time for your delivery.

At 11:40 a.m., you came into this world. The doctor said you were not breathing and that there were two true knots tied in your umbilical cord. The doctors and nurses began working tirelessly to stabilize you and prepare you for transport to the Mayo NICU, where you would receive the best care. Daddy went with you while I rested, preparing to be with you by Friday morning.

By 9:25 a.m. on Friday, we were where we belonged — by your side, fighting for you and watching as tests and treatments were performed. Your results reassured us that you just needed a little more time before coming home. You remained in care for 72 hours as we hoped and prayed for progress.

On Saturday night at 9:51 p.m., more doctors arrived. Things were no longer progressing as we had hoped. We prayed harder than ever as the situation became critical. By 8:00 a.m., we faced the terrifying reality of deciding how best to help you. Ultimately, at 8:51 a.m., we made the hardest decision of our lives — to change your code status and let you pass peacefully.

Your big sisters came in to meet you, hold your hand, and share the pictures they had drawn for you — memories we will never forget. At 11:20 a.m., we huddled together and had our family picture taken as a family of six. These were the last moments your sisters had with you.

At 11:43 a.m., we prepared you for your baptism. At 12:34 p.m., you were baptized as we prayed over you, knowing you were preparing to cross over. At 1:12 p.m., we removed all assisted support. Mommy and Daddy held you, and at 1:30 p.m., the doctor confirmed that you had passed away in our arms.

Barret Allen is survived by his loving Parents Patrick and Laura Miller his sisters Neiko Lorraine, Brodie Kaye, and Rustyn Robin.  Grandparents Thomas and Sandra Welsh, Tanya Petersen (Mike) Kurt Miller (Lori). Great Grandpa Goette.  Uncle Jesse Welsh and cousins  Kendall, Kadence and Tucker.  Auntie Nikki and cousin Finley.  God mother's Abby Labare and Amanda Jo Labare. And so many honorary Uncles and Aunties and cousins who love Barret so much.

His heavenly family is welcoming him with open arms. Great Grandma Goette has him to show him everything he will ever need. Grandpa Wally's cloud surfing trips got longer to find him. Becky Pientok has him to squish.  Robbie and Todd to teach him how to be silly. Kenny to teach him too put fire on the wood. Great Grandparents Lyman and Mavonwynne Miller.  Great Grandparents Russel and Rita Tesmer.  Great Grandma Pat Kusler.  And Great Grandpa Tim Pedersen.  So many heavenly people to guide him.

The family will host a visitation service on Wednesday, November 27, 2024 from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church (903 Robert Avenue) Eyota, MN

I don't know why your life was so short; no one will ever know. But I do know that no one will ever forget you. You are so loved, Barret Allen Miller.

Love,

Mommy, Daddy, Neiko, Brodie, and Rustyn