Son.We discovered we were pregnant with the rare MCMA twins, and at 17 weeks, Poppy was diagnosed with transposition of the aorta (TGA). The following weeks were tense, with weekly ultrasounds and anxious monitoring awaiting the specialist’s results.
We discovered we were expecting MCMA twins at nine weeks, a rare form of identical twins sharing a placenta and amniotic sac. Because of the complexity, I was referred to a larger hospital for detailed weekly ultrasounds to monitor their development closely.
At 17 weeks, the sonographer noticed that our first twin, Poppy, had transposition of the great arteries (TGA). Neither of us had ever heard of TGA before, but a kind specialist explained the condition in detail and drew diagrams to help us understand. We learned that Poppy would need surgery after birth, and as identical twins, both babies could potentially have the condition.
Weekly fetal echocardiograms became a part of our routine. We were also informed that, due to the risks associated with MCMA twins, we would likely need to deliver early, around 32 to 33 weeks, to minimize complications. The doctors recommended that the birth take place at a specialized cardiac center, ensuring the twins would receive the best possible care.
On 32 weeks and 2 days, I underwent a planned cesarean section under general anesthesia. Posie, our first twin, was born at 14:24, followed just a minute later by Poppy at 14:25—a true miracle and our little TGA fighter. Both babies were quickly stabilized by the medical team, receiving respiratory support and incubator care before being transferred to the NICU.
Doctors warned us that Poppy needed to reach a weight of more than six pounds (about 2.7 kg) before she could undergo corrective surgery. Being premature and weighing only 3 pounds 10 ounces (1.4 kg), we knew that we would face a long wait and a challenging journey before her arterial switch operation. Her weight fluctuated due to breathing difficulties, making each day unpredictable and tense.
Just over a month old, Poppy was moved to the PICU for a balloon atrial septostomy, a procedure intended to provide temporary relief and time before her main surgery. Unfortunately, complications arose after this intervention. On July 7, she suffered a frontal lobe stroke, followed by a Serratia infection caused by the PDA stent, a necessary measure to delay her arterial switch operation.
Poppy continued to face additional challenges, including abdominal distension, oxygen desaturation, and urinary retention. Simultaneously, doctors diagnosed her with coarctation of the aorta (CoA) and unfavorable coronary anatomy, which required close monitoring before and after her arterial switch surgery.
Finally, on July 28, Poppy underwent her arterial switch operation. The surgical team was apprehensive, as her health remained fragile, but delaying surgery was no longer an option. The operation was completed successfully, and her chest was left temporarily open to allow her heart and body to recover safely.
Post-surgery, Poppy’s condition improved steadily. By August 4, she was transferred from the PICU to the cardiac ward. On August 19, she was weaned off the CPAP machine and moved to another hospital for high-flow oxygen therapy. A week later, she was discharged home.
Although Poppy still requires multidisciplinary care, including cardiology, neurology, nutrition, and speech therapy, she is now an 11-month-old happy baby, soon to celebrate her first birthday. She thrives at home alongside her twin sister, Posie, and shows no major health issues apart from mild swallowing difficulties, likely a result of her stroke. She is fed via a nasogastric tube but continues to gain strength and resilience every day.
Poppy attends three-monthly cardiac ultrasounds, and she demonstrates remarkable courage and adaptability. She has brought immense joy and hope to our family, transforming each challenge into an opportunity to celebrate life. Her personality shines through every smile, coo, and playful gesture.
Reflecting on Poppy’s journey, we remain profoundly grateful to the medical teams who cared for her. Every intervention, every consultation, and every moment of vigilance contributed to her survival and progress. Their expertise, compassion, and dedication gave us the confidence that our daughter was receiving the best care possible, even in the most critical moments.
The experience of expecting MCMA twins and facing complex congenital heart disease has taught us about patience, hope, and resilience. Each scan, procedure, and hospital visit reinforced the delicate nature of life and the strength of a family united in love and advocacy. Poppy’s journey is a testament to the power of medical innovation and the unwavering commitment of healthcare professionals.
Today, Poppy is a thriving, joyous baby girl, a living testament to courage and perseverance. She reminds us daily that even the smallest hearts can demonstrate immense strength and that miracles can come in the tiniest packages. Our family cherishes every breath, every milestone, and every moment with her.
Her story also serves as a beacon of hope for other families facing similar diagnoses. It highlights the importance of early detection, specialized care, and community support. Parents navigating high-risk pregnancies and congenital heart conditions can find inspiration and reassurance in Poppy’s journey.
Poppy’s life embodies resilience, determination, and the extraordinary power of love and medicine combined. She has overcome every obstacle with bravery beyond her months, proving that miracles are real. Her presence has strengthened our family and reminded us to treasure every moment, every giggle, and every small victory.
As we celebrate Poppy’s first birthday, we honor her journey from fragile beginnings to her current thriving state. We are grateful for the care she received, the love that surrounds her, and the hope she continues to inspire. Poppy, our little warrior, is living proof that courage and love can prevail, even in the face of the most challenging circumstances.
