Abby and Erin, twin girls born in North Carolina in 2016, entered the world with an extraordinary challenge — they were conjoined at the head. Their condition was so rare and complex that even experienced doctors were hesitant to intervene.
Their mother, Ann Delaney, learned about the situation early in her pregnancy — by the 11th week, doctors had already recommended termination due to the extreme risks. But Ann refused to give up on her daughters.
At 27 weeks, complications forced her into the hospital, and by week 30, she underwent an emergency C-section. The newborn girls were tiny, fragile, and physically connected in one of the most complicated ways possible.
Doctors knew that survival alone was rare — only 2% of twins born with this condition live long enough to be considered for separation surgery. Miraculously, Abby and Erin were in that small percentage.
After months of evaluations, scans, and consultations, medical experts decided surgery could be done, though the risks were immense. Ann gave her consent, understanding what was at stake. Her goal: to give each of her daughters a chance at her own future.
On June 6, 2017 — nearly a year after their birth — the 11-hour operation began. Erin’s separation went more smoothly, while Abby’s procedure was far more complex, requiring surgeons to carefully navigate each shared blood vessel and tissue layer.
In the end, both girls survived the operation.
After five months of recovery in the hospital, Abby and Erin were able to go home — and begin a long journey of healing and adaptation.
Seven years have passed since that life-altering day. The girls are alive and growing. Life hasn’t been without its challenges — both were diagnosed with intellectual disabilities and are nonverbal — but they are social, smile often, and enjoy being around other children.
Erin learned to walk at age five. Abby, though still unable to walk independently, can stand while holding her mother’s hands. The family remains hopeful that she will take her first steps in time.
Their journey is far from over, but it’s one of resilience, love, and hope against all odds.
