It’s with great sorrow that we announce the birth and death of our third daughter, Avalee Joy Garcia, on Wednesday, 11/27, weighing 7 lbs 12 oz, at 22 inches long. She was born at 39 weeks but passed away a few days before birth. Physically, this was the hardest pregnancy Rachel has ever had and I’m so proud of her for every ounce of strength she poured into carrying Avalee these past nine months. Her death comes as a major shock because she appeared to be completely healthy throughout her time in the womb. The tears haven’t stopped flowing and probably won’t anytime soon…

We found out we were pregnant with Avalee on Easter Sunday, March 31 2024. From that very moment, we knew her name needed to have “life” in it (her name means to live/to breathe + meadow), to represent the resurrection life of Jesus. Only, we didn’t realize she would be living that resurrected life in heaven before we’d even get to meet her in person. Though we mourn her death, she’s more alive than we’ve ever been.

We’re so grateful for the roughly 24 hours we got to spend with her body, before leaving it behind on Thanksgiving Day. Leaving our child’s lifeless body at the hospital on Thanksgiving is a tragic way to celebrate a day of thankfulness. Nonetheless, we ARE thankful we got to give her life, carry her with us, and entrust her back into the arms of Jesus, till we meet again.

We also want to acknowledge everyone who has sent condolences, support, and prayers (and the many more who will). We are surrounded by a beautiful community of friends and family, and it’s something we are truly thankful for.

Photo Credit: Birth Undone (We were incredibly blessed to have her capture most of these moments for us)