Abbigail and Isabelle Carlsen marked their 18th birthday not too long ago. They were born as conjoined twins and underwent a complex separation surgery at the age of six months. Despite facing additional medical procedures as they grew up, they now lead happy and fulfilling lives.
Their journey began when their mother, Amy, noticed something concerning during a routine ultrasound. The technician’s unusually long explanation and the ominous feeling Amy had suggested that something was amiss. The ultrasound revealed that Abby and Belle were conjoined from their abdomen to their chest, facing each other.
The grim reality was that their chances of surviving to birth were only one in 100,000. Nevertheless, Jesse and Amy were resolute in doing everything possible to bring their daughters into the world. On November 29th, Abby and Belle were born, two beautiful girls with an extraordinary bond.
Dr. Moir, acknowledging the complexity of the twins’ condition, ordered detailed ultrasounds and scans. The images revealed that while each girl had her own vital organs, their hearts overlapped, their pancreases were joined, and their intestines were entangled. Faced with this intricate challenge, Dr. Moir put together a surgical team of over 30 specialists, including surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses. After nearly 10 hours of meticulous surgery, the team successfully separated Abby and Isabelle.
From birth, Abby and Belle have displayed distinct personalities. Their mother, Amy Carlsen, humorously remembered how it was easier to buy matching outfits when they were connected—just buy two and fasten them together. Despite their close bond, Abby and Belle have different traits. Abby was the cuddly one, more sensitive and calm, while Belle was energetic and tended to stay awake. They have always been keen on maintaining their individual identities, preferring to be known as Isabelle and Abby in their classrooms.
Recently, on November 29, 2023, the twins commemorated their 18th birthday. They continue to participate in many activities together, such as dancing in groups and maintaining common friendships.
The bond between twins like Abby and Belle is truly extraordinary. They can finish each other’s sentences and sense each other’s emotions. Stories of twins who were separated but still made similar life choices emphasize the exceptional and unique connection they share.