Twins are relatively rare, occurring in about 33 out of every 1,000 births. Since 1980, the frequency of twin births has increased by 72%. Even more uncommon are identical twins, with just three or four sets born per 1,000 births.
Savannah Combs was overjoyed when she found out she was expecting twins, despite the unexpected news that both babies had Down syndrome. Her excitement for her growing family remained strong, undeterred by the challenges ahead.
Savannah and her partner, Justin Ackerman, were heartbroken when they learned that their daughters, Kennadi Rue and Mckenli Ackerman, might face serious health challenges. Despite this, Savannah’s love for her children was unwavering, even as they faced potential judgment from others.
In an interview with News4JAX, Savannah affectionately referred to her twins as “her tiny diamonds.” Her journey as a new mother gained attention on TikTok, where she shared videos of her experiences. What made her story even more remarkable was that doctors had advised her to consider terminating the pregnancy due to the twins’ diagnosis, but Savannah chose to carry on.
Savannah cherished the news that she was expecting twins, both with Down syndrome. Each prenatal visit brought her closer to her babies, allowing her to savor every moment before their arrival.
During her pregnancy, Savannah often found herself alone, as her husband was away at boot camp. At 29 weeks, she went into labor and gave birth to two beautiful twin girls.
Despite the initial shock of their diagnosis, Savannah embraced her daughters with love and determination, vowing to give them every opportunity to thrive. The experience taught her valuable lessons about life and love that she carries with her.
Because the twins were born two months early, they spent several weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) before they were able to go home.
The twins are known as “mono di twins,” meaning they have separate amniotic sacs but share the same placenta, making them identical. What makes their situation even more extraordinary is that both girls have Down syndrome, a rare occurrence estimated to happen in only one out of every two million births.
Savannah is committed to showing that, despite their unique condition, her daughters are just like any other children. She firmly believes that they will achieve great things, as they are full of love, have beating hearts, and the ability to communicate.
Savannah regularly updates her followers on TikTok, sharing each milestone her daughters reach. She hopes to inspire others by reminding them that anything is possible with determination.
As a young mother, Savannah has faced some negativity on social media regarding her daughters. One particularly harsh comment suggested that if the commenter had been in her situation, they would have given the babies up for adoption.
Savannah responded with grace, stating that her daughters were born to the right parents—herself and her husband—who would love and cherish them unconditionally. Her response serves as a powerful reminder that love and compassion are what truly matter.
Let’s share Savannah’s inspiring story in celebration of her and her beautiful daughters on Facebook!
