6-05-2023 4:10am

MIRACLE TWIN GIRLS

A Miracle Birth and a Long Journey Home

Rebecca and John Cahall had been eagerly awaiting the arrival of their twin girls, who were due in July 2023. But their joy turned into fear when Rebecca developed pre-eclampsia, a dangerous condition that causes high blood pressure and can harm both mother and baby.

At 28 weeks, Rebecca had to undergo an emergency cesarean section to save her life and the lives of her babies. The twins, who shared a placenta, were born weighing less than three pounds each and were immediately taken to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at GBMC.

There, the doctors discovered another complication: the twins had twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS), a rare disorder that affects the blood flow between identical twins. One twin was getting more red blood cells than the other, causing one to be pale and anemic and the other to be red and polycythemic. The condition can lead to serious problems such as brain damage, heart failure and death, if left untreated. The twins needed several blood transfusions and close monitoring to stabilize their condition.

Rebecca, who was recovering from surgery, was not able to see her babies for 24 hours. She said it was heartbreaking to be separated from them and not be able to hold them or be with them.

"I could see them in there with like their tubes and wires. I knew they were fighting for their lives. It was kind of like a relief that they were alive, but also terrifying that they were so fragile," she said.

John, who was juggling work and family responsibilities, said he felt helpless and overwhelmed by the situation. He said he tried to stay positive and supportive for his wife and his daughters.

"It was hard to see them so small and vulnerable. I wanted to protect them and make them better, but I couldn't do anything. I just had to trust the doctors and nurses," he said.

The Cahalls said they found comfort and guidance from the staff at the NICU, who became like a second family to them. They said the nurses taught them how to care for their babies, how to change their diapers, how to feed them, and how to bond with them through skin-to-skin contact.

"They were amazing. They were so compassionate and knowledgeable. They listened to our concerns and answered our questions. They celebrated every milestone with us. They made us feel like we were not alone," Rebecca said.

The Cahalls also found support from other parents in the NICU, who shared their stories and experiences with them. They said they formed friendships that lasted beyond their stay at the hospital.

"We met some wonderful people who were going through similar things as us. We understood each other's struggles and joys. We cheered each other on. We became a community," John said.

After 12 weeks of ups and downs, the twins were finally ready to be discharged. The NICU staff threw a graduation party for them, complete with onesies, certificates and pictures. The Cahalls said it was a bittersweet moment to leave the place that had been their home for so long.

"We were so happy to take our girls home, but we were also sad to say goodbye to everyone who helped us so much. They were like family to us. We will always be grateful for what they did for us," Rebecca said.

The twins, who are now 2 years old, are doing well at home. They are growing, smiling and developing their own personalities. Rebecca said they are miracles who have overcome so much.

"They are our little fighters. They have shown us how strong they are. They have taught us how precious life is. They are our everything," she said.

The 35th annual Father's Day 5K is an excellent opportunity to support babies like the Cahall twins while also spending quality time with your own family participating in a fun and healthy activity. The 5K run/walk suitable for all ages and fitness levels will be held on June 18, and supports GBMC's NICU babies and the staff that care for them. By registering for this event, you will not only have a great time with your loved ones but also support GBMC's mission to provide top-quality healthcare to future of the Baltimore community—its newborns. Don't miss out on this chance to create unforgettable memories and make a positive impact on your community!

The Father’s Day 5K & 1 Mile Walk benefits the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at GBMC, which helps about 400 babies annually that are born too small, too sick or too soon.

Because of events like the 5K, the NICU team can provide developmental programs, bereavement support and more for their patients and families.

Father's Day 5K Fitness Frenzy!

We are encouraging our community to support the NICU and to improve their own health! The Father's Day 5K Fitness Frenzy Sweepstakes will offer participants the chance to win an ultimate sports package while supporting GBMC's NICU. One lucky winner will receive four tickets and a hotel stay to see their favorite baseball, football, hockey, or basketball team play anywhere in the country (exclusions apply, see official rules). There are two ways to win:

Register for the GBMC Father’s Day 5K and 1-Mile Fun Walk on June 18. Pay the registration fee of $30 and you will earn 100 chances to win.

Every additional donation of just $5 will earn you an extra 10 chances.

Log an activity every day between June 1 – 18 using this form for one chance to win per day. Logging a daily activity is based on the honor system.