Premature twins Billie and Bonnie, from Scotland, were born four months premature and were given only a 50/50 chance of survival. Nineteen months later, they are happy and healthy toddlers.
Mother Loren Lyon, from Falkirk, was unable to hold her precious twins until many weeks after their births.
Billie and Bonnie arrived four months early and weighed just 2lb 2oz combined. They were Scotland’s smallest twins.
After being born, the two girls were placed in special bags to maintain their body heat. They were given a “very low” chance of survival.
Loren recalled: “The first time I saw them, they just looked so unwell. I just remember thinking, ‘Are they going to make it?’ They were just so tiny.”
During their 89 days in hospital, the twins fought off infections and other premature birth complications, including a ruptured membrane.
With the help of doctors and nurses, Billie and Bonnie pulled through. And finally, after 16 months, the twins could breathe unaided.
“To look at them now you would never know they had been born so premature”, said Loren. “They really are wee miracles. Their heads were only about the size of an apple, if that, and their legs and arms were so thin. My friend put it best when she said they looked just like little frogs.”
“Miracles do happen”.
SPUC comment
A SPUC spokesperson said: “The story of wee miracles Billie and Bonnie beating overwhelming odds is heart-warming, especially during these dark days of COVID-19.
“It is wonderful what the medical profession can achieve today in the area of neonatal care, preventing tragedies and sparing parents the heartbreak of losing a child.
“SPUC wishes them all the best.”
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