An Irreplaceable Life Lost
With heavy hearts, Kathryn and Alex Hein, from Lakefield, Minnesota, shared the tragic loss of their beloved one-year-old son, Madden. Two days after falling from a third-floor window at Club House Hotel & Suites in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Madden passed away on April 15th.
In a moving Facebook post, the grieving parents wrote, “It is with heavy hearts to say that our sweet baby boy Madden gained his angel wings late on April 15th. Madden is going into organ donation. His organs are going to help so many other people. Our little boy is a real-life superhero.”
A Call to Action
Kathryn and Alex’s immeasurable pain has propelled them to advocate for change, raising awareness about window safety. They urge parents to take necessary precautions to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.
Honoring Madden’s Legacy
In the face of such adversity, the Heins have chosen to honor Madden’s memory through the selfless act of organ donation. His organs will bring hope and healing to countless others, ensuring that a part of him continues to live on.
Ongoing Investigation
Sioux Falls Police are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Madden’s fall. Officer Sam Clemens emphasized that “nothing to lead us to believe it was anything other than a tragic accident.”
A Devoted Family United in Tragedy
Alex Hein, a middle school social studies teacher and high school basketball coach, and Kathryn, a kindergarten teacher and volleyball coach, are navigating this unimaginable loss with the support of their 3-year-old daughter. The arrival of their new child in August brings a bittersweet reminder of the joy Madden brought to their lives.
Community Outpouring of Sympathy
The Sioux Falls community and beyond have rallied around the Hein family, offering unwavering support and prayers. Friends, neighbors, and total strangers have expressed their condolences and pledged to help in any way possible.
Legacy of Love and Loss
Madden’s passing leaves an unfillable void in the lives of his parents, siblings, and extended family. His brief life touched the hearts of countless others, inspiring a renewed appreciation for the preciousness of every moment.
Call to Action: Window Safety
Alex and Kathryn Hein’s message to parents is clear: Prioritize window safety in your homes and always supervise young children around windows. They offer the following tips:
- Install window guards or locks to prevent children from opening them.
- Keep furniture away from windows to prevent children from climbing.
- Never leave children unattended in rooms with open windows.
- Educate children about the dangers of falling from heights.
