In a world where magic feels rare, real-life miracles still happen. That was true for Abby and Erin Delaney, born in 2016 conjoined at the head — a condition called craniopagus. Doctors gave them just a 5–25% chance of survival.
Heather and Riley Delaney were stunned when they learned their twin girls were conjoined, but they chose to continue the pregnancy. On July 24, 2016, Abby and Erin were born via C-section, weighing just 2 lbs each.
The twins spent 485 days at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where a groundbreaking 11-hour surgery in June 2017, involving 30 medical professionals, successfully separated them. Though Abby faced sinus issues and Erin had a more difficult recovery, both girls defied the odds.
The operation was so innovative it was featured in the New England Journal of Medicine. Surgeons used new techniques to reconfigure the twins’ skulls before separation, allowing for an earlier and safer procedure.
The family knew more surgeries would follow. In 2021, the girls underwent skull reconstruction, and later that year, both were diagnosed with autism — a tough moment for the family. Still, Heather shares their journey on social media, celebrating their progress.
Now 9 years old, Abby is learning to walk, while Erin is running around and gaining strength. Despite challenges, their parents remain proud and full of love.
“We’ve never wished things were different,” Heather says. “We love our girls just the way they are.”