These conjoined twins were joined at the abdomen, and together they shared only two legs, one kidney, and one liver. When they were 4 years old, doctors decided to separate them. The operation lasted 26 hours, but each had her own body.
Kendra and Malia Herrin were born as conjoined twins; their bodies were joined at the abdomen, and together they shared only two legs, one kidney, and one liver. Doctors immediately warned the parents: separation would not only be difficult, but dangerous, nearly impossible. However, the parents refused to give up. For many months, they consulted with renowned surgeons, listened to the predictions, and analyzed the risks. The decision was distressing, but they realized that if they didn’t try, their daughters would have no chance of leading normal lives.
When the girls turned four, a team of dozens of doctors, surgeons, and anesthesiologists began the operation. The procedure lasted nearly 26 hours. And then, success! Two little lives existed separately. The first few months after the operation were terrifying. The girls learned to exist again: first to sit, then to crawl, and then to walk with prosthetics, since each had only one leg. They had to undergo several more surgeries, including a kidney transplant, but Malia and Kendra proved to be true fighters.
Today, 18 years after that momentous operation, the sisters live rich and vibrant lives. Not only did they overcome challenges, but they also inspire thousands of people with their story. Kendra found solace in art; brushes and paints became her way of expressing emotions, and she later mastered digital design. Malia became interested in music, sang in the school choir, and then picked up a guitar and enthusiastically learned to play her favorite tunes.
