Twin Sisters Conjoined at the Head Successfully Separated in Life-Changing Surgery

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Twin sisters conjoined at the head were successfully separated in a life-changing surgery here in the U.S. For nearly two years, Hiyab and Wuhbto could hear each other’s voices, but they could not turn and see each other’s faces. Born in Ethiopia and joined at the head, the sisters had always been close. Now, for the first time, they can look into each other’s eyes.

Can you imagine that moment? The sister whose voice has been beside you your whole life is suddenly right there, reaching back when you reach for her.

Hiyab and Wuhbto were born with a rare condition called craniopagus. They traveled from Ethiopia to St. Louis, Missouri, where specialists at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital spent months studying their case and preparing to separate them. On February 24, a medical team began an operation that lasted more than 24 hours. When it was over, the girls were successfully separated.

“At the final day of separation we knew we had achieved everything we could in a graduated fashion,”Dr. Philippe Mercier said.

Conjoined Twin Sisters Travel to the U.S. for Surgery

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I believe God is still the God of miracles today. In this miracle that unfolded, you can see His care in every pair of hands that helped these girls reach St. Louis, in the skill and patience of their surgeons, and in the people helping them through recovery. So many people gave their time and hearts to make a future possible for Hiyab and Wuhbto.

Kate Corbett of World Pediatrics, one of the girls’ guardians, described a joy that once seemed out of reach. “Never before had they been able to snuggle up to each other and to reach for each other,” she said. Now the sisters can be together in that sweet, face-to-face way.

Their Recovery Continues One Milestone at a Time

The girls are still healing. At Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital, they are receiving therapy and learning to sit upright, play, and spend time with other children. Wuhbto has undergone another operation to complete the repair of her skull, while Hiyab is preparing for hers. Their care continues, one milestone at a time. 

I keep thinking of two little girls reaching toward each other after a lifetime of knowing the other was there. What a tender gift to finally see the face that goes with the voice. And what a reason to thank God for the many people who helped bring them to this moment.

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“You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples.”  Psalm 77:14

WATCH: Twin Sisters Conjoined at the Head Successfully Separated in Life-Changing Surgery 

LISTEN: 9-Year-Old Finds Uncle’s Wedding Ring in Minnesota Lake 10 Years After It Vanished

h/t: Fox 2 News

Featured Image Credit: YouTube/ABC7

Heather Riggleman is a believer, wife, mom, author, social media consultant, and full-time writer. She lives in Minden, Nebraska with her kids, high school sweetheart, and three cats who are her entourage around the homestead. She is a former award-winning journalist with over 2,000 articles published. She is full of grace and grit, raw honesty, and truly believes tacos can solve just about any situation. You can find her on GodUpdates, iBelieve, Crosswalk, Hello Darling, Focus On The Family, and in Brio Magazine. Connect with her at www.HeatherRiggleman.com or on Facebook.