Help our twins start strong!

October 1, 2024

A Miracle is Coming: Lilly & Lucy's Journey to Separation

High spirits abound as we countdown to the separation surgery of Lilly & Lucy this month! Our little blessings unite an extraordinary community of family, caregivers, world-class doctors and prayer-filled strangers from near and far, to stand in awe of the courageous spirit, unbridled wonder, and babbling laughter that Lilly and Lucy bring to the world.

The next major step in the twins’ courageous journey starts with their 30 day preparation for separation! The expert medical team at CHOP has been carefully planning the precision surgery to finally give each twin their individual bodies! The girls endured a multi-hour MRI in May, followed by tests, ultrasounds, measurements, lifting, and studying to make sure the staff has well-orchestrated game plan for separation.

The road to separation has been challenging for Lilly & Lucy's parents and their older sisters. Balancing the demands of caring for conjoined twins while also meeting the needs of their other children has been no easy feat. With the compassionate sanctuary of the Ronald McDonald House in Philly, Mom has been able to spend more than half the week working during the day and then heading to CHOP to babble with the twins, feed them their first solid foods, change their single diaper, and watch them wind down with heavy eyelids as they float off to sleep with sweet dreams. Their sisters get to come into CHOP on special weekends, and Lilly and Lucy are always excited to see their big sisters with giant smiles and arms outreached.

The twins have been resilient through viruses, teething, and having to lay down much of the day. When the girls get to ride sitting-up in the wagon, they are super-excited and wide-eyed taking in the entire world around them. We know it’s time the girls were able to crawl, walk and run on their own! Lucy taught herself how to pull herself up and try to crawl – only slowed down by her sister, and little speed-bump, Lilly. Now we know the twins are ready to explore the world hand-in-hand, without a bodily tether.

We're ready to support Lilly & Lucy on this incredible journey and help them reach their full potential. Let's come together as a community to cheer them on and be part of their miracle!

January 29, 2024

2023 has been a year of both challenges and triumphs for Lilly and Lucy. Like many other children, the twins faced a tough battle with RSV in December, but thanks to the exceptional care of the CHOP medical team, they not only recovered but transitioned to a regular pediatric care room just before Christmas. This past week, the family received even more amazing news: the CHOP team is planning their separation! While there are still several months of planning and growth ahead, this anticipation fills us with excitement for their individual growth and independence.

Beyond the medical milestones, there have been moments of pure joy. Mom Kayla will never forget the first time she saw Lily's radiant smile, a glimpse into her blossoming personality and progress. Even the slightest interactions, like their wide eyes and sweet baby squeaks in response to Mom's voice, speak volumes about their connection and incredible development. Seeing Mom holding down the fort at CHOP, while Dad lovingly tends to their older sisters, showcases the true strength and unwavering dedication of their family unit.

Through it all, the Thomas family remains incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share their story of hope, resilience, and love. They stand as a testament to the power of family, medical expertise, and the inherent fighting spirit of these two remarkable little girls.