Twin pregnancies are still quite uncommon, with only about 33 out of every 1,000 births resulting in twins. And when it comes to identical twins with Down syndrome, the odds are even lower – about one in 2 million.
But for Savannah Combs and her husband Justin Ackerman, the rarity of their twins’ condition is what makes them even more precious. Despite facing judgment from some people, Savannah sees her daughters, Kennadi Rue and Mckenli Ackerman, as her little gems.
“When I found out about their condition, it was upsetting, but it also made them even more special to me,” Savannah shared. “They have rare qualities that make them unique, and they bring so much joy to our lives.”
Although some people advised Savannah to consider abortion due to the challenges her children might face, she chose to give them a chance at life. Every prenatal appointment where they were alive became a blessing to her.
Savannah documented her postpartum journey on TikTok, sharing heartwarming videos of her twin girls reaching milestones and spreading awareness about Down syndrome. These videos quickly gained popularity, with many supporting and celebrating the girls’ progress.
The journey hasn’t been without its challenges, though. The twins were born prematurely at 29 weeks and had to spend a few weeks in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) before going home. But despite their early arrival and Down syndrome diagnosis, Kennadi and Mckenli are just like any other children.
“They have feelings. They have a beating heart. They know how to talk. They know how to do things you do. They will get there,” Savannah proudly states. “They might be a step behind, but they’re determined and feisty. They’ll accomplish their milestones in their own time.”
Unfortunately, Savannah and her family have also faced criticism and cruelty on social media. But Savannah’s response to those who doubted and judged her and her children was perfect. She wrote on Facebook, “Good thing they weren’t born to you and were born to me. God knew what he was doing by giving these babies to the right parents who would love them regardless.”
Let’s celebrate the beauty and resilience of these gorgeous girls and spread their heartwarming story far and wide. They prove that every child, regardless of their condition, is precious and deserving of love and acceptance.
