When a couple discovers they’re expecting a baby, a whirlwind of emotions ensues—joy, excitement, and even a touch of panic. Now, amplify that experience twofold when they learn they’re expecting twins, and that touch of panic might even tip the scales to triple.
In January of 2014, Natalie and Chris Hughes welcomed their twin babies, Millie Bea and Evan Ray. While the initial panic of raising twins had somewhat subsided, they faced a new challenge—one that came in the form of Millie Bea’s cerebral palsy.
Millie Bea’s diagnosis meant she couldn’t partake in many activities her twin brother enjoyed, such as crawling, dancing, walking, and running. Yet, Evan Ray never allowed her diagnosis to dampen their fun. Since he started walking, Evan Ray has been a constant source of support for Millie Bea. He brings her shoes, fetches her food and drinks, and always checks if she’s okay whenever she falls.
Natalie shares that her two kids have always shared a deep bond and “love each other very much.”
Earlier this year, in January, Millie Bea underwent a Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) surgery—a procedure that involves cutting nerves in the lower spine to alleviate muscle rigidity. This operation can assist patients in walking properly and prevent muscles from becoming overly stiff.
Before the surgery, Millie Bea could only walk while leaning on a frame or with assistance from her parents. Following the procedure, she underwent intensive physical therapy to strengthen her leg muscles. Slowly but surely, she began catching up to her brother.
On Thursday, September 6th, a significant day arrived for Millie Bea—it was her first day of primary school. On that day, the sweet four-year-old expressed her wish to walk unassisted. Natalie and Chris, like any proud parents would, captured the moment on video.
With Evan Ray by her side, Natalie stood behind Millie Bea, offering encouragement as her determined steps marked a remarkable milestone. As she walked along, adorned in her adorable school uniform, cheers erupted, and a radiant smile lit up her face.
We have a strong belief that by the end of the school year, Millie Bea will be right alongside her twin brother, matching him step for step. This heartwarming triumph is a testament to the power of determination, love, and sibling support.
