Antalya, Turkey, witnessed a remarkable journey of hope and healing as Yigit and Derman Evrensel, conjoined twins, achieved a remarkable milestone. On the cusp of their second birthday next year, the twins’ tale is one of unwavering determination and medical marvels. After a series of intricate surgical procedures conducted at London’s esteemed Great Ormond Street Hospital, their intertwined lives were successfully untangled on January 28.
The twins’ post-separation journey unfolded under meticulous medical supervision within the confines of the British hospital. Yet, their homecoming became an emotional spectacle as they recently returned to their Turkish roots aboard an air ambulance, a gracious gesture facilitated by the Turkish Ministry of Health. The duo’s arrival at Ankara’s Eseoga airport marked a momentous occasion, capturing the attention of media and touching countless hearts.
Omer Erensel, the proud father, voiced his elation and gratitude, expressing that the twins are now experiencing normal eyesight, feeding habits, and overall well-being. To him, their separation signifies a rebirth—a chance for their family to begin anew.
Amid tears of joy, the twins’ mother, Fatma, shared her profound relief at the successful separation. She emotionally recounted the agony of being unable to embrace or comfort her children before their surgery. Now, with the procedure behind them, her heart brims with happiness as the twins’ suffering has finally come to an end.
The twins’ condition, craniopagus, is an exceedingly rare anomaly occurring only once in every 2.5 million births. Sadly, most infants afflicted by this condition do not survive beyond 24 hours. To date, a mere sixty separation surgeries have been undertaken worldwide.
In the midst of their pregnancy, the twins’ parents encountered the difficult choice of whether to proceed or consider termination. Believing their children were a gift from the divine, they decided to embrace the journey ahead. Their deep gratitude resonates for the successful separation and the blessings of returning to their homeland with two healthy children.
In a gesture of immense compassion, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his wife Emine played a pivotal role in facilitating the twins’ voyage to the United Kingdom for crucial medical interventions. With separation surgery beyond the scope of possibility in Turkey, the government’s support throughout the process was a beacon of hope for the family.With nearly 3,000 kilometers traversed, the Evrensel family now stands on the precipice of a new chapter—a chapter brimming with promise and potential. Home in Turkey, they eagerly anticipate the twins’ upcoming second birthday, a celebration that will resonate with joy and enthusiasm. Grateful for the opportunity to witness their children grow and thrive like any other youngsters their age, this story of resilience and recovery inspires us all to cherish life’s miracles.
