I've watched a LOT of videos about conjoined twins (Abby and Brittany, Carmen and Lupita, etc) and this is the first time I've ever heard a parent talk about one of the factors in choosing to separate twins being "balance of power," if you will. I thought that was fascinating -- that Eva and Erika's mother noticed that when the two were conjoined, one wasn't developing the same degree of personality, autonomy, expression and voice as the other, and that she sensed that if they were separated, that twin would blossom. That's really perceptive.
That seems to be a common dynamic with conjoined twins, for some reason. It seems like one leads and the other follows. I wonder if any behavioral psychologist have ever studied the phenomenon.
Good mom's trust their instincts! The parents are really beautiful! You can feel the love explode from their hearts!! And Mrs.Chiles was a gift to those girls and I hope she always stays in their lives!!!
Yes for sure. Eva is so articulate and expressive. While the other twin has much developed motor skills. So touching and so human to hear the little girl cry when saying she wants to feel normal and her teacher has obviously had a huge impact to that effect. I feel the same way inside...so wow that was an excellent video.
@@TinoEvembrioti I found both girls were very articulate and expressive. Eva is just more lively and dynamic in the way she expresses herself.Erika seems to be more of an introvert but they're both just as smart. Well done to the very smart and sensitive parents
You can see that a lot of these questions were new for the girls and they really lit up when given the opportunity to talk about what makes them unique and the challenges they face. I think it's so important that you are giving children like Eva and Erika the opportunity to reflect on what makes them unique and be given a lot of special attention because of it.
I was so impressed in how happy and secure these girls are, but then when Chris asked Eva about why she likes to feel confident, her demeanour changed, the tears came and her reply “because I feel normal” just broke my heart 😪. These parents must be so proud of them though. 2 very intelligent and articulate girls, with very distinct, almost opposite personalities.
These girls are ADORABLE, very bright young girls. I think the parents made the right choice to proceed with separation.. the mom explained it beautifully when she said “the girls already HAVE LIFE, but it wasn’t INDIVIDUAL life until they where delegated”. I understand why they would do an anniversary for that day, also it’s teaching the girls to celebrate their individuality♥️
I love your words❤ but I'm just wondering, does that mean that conjoind twins who weren't separated cannot get their individuality? I feel like if we generalized the concept that the separation is the only way to give children their individuality it won't be fair for those who stayed conjoind for any reason
@@sundusfetian9427 I think they were more referring to their specific case, seeing that, while conjoined, one twin was not thriving, so their individuality wasn’t manifesting. Since the opportunity for separation was available in their case, they decided it was probably better for their two daughters to express their individuality more successfully, if they were separated. That might not be necessary for every set of conjoined twins and parents are keenly aware of their childrens’ personalities & health, mentally and physically, at such a young age. Some conjoined twins both thrive, live successfully individual lives, marry & even have children, all while being conjoined. Others still, may not do well, but don’t have the choice of separation due to anatomy or other factors and must learn to live with it. These twins got an outcome that seems right for them, I feel.
I am sad to admit, I would have been one of the kids avoiding these sweet kiddos at recess. I had a big fear of the unknown and "strange" anyone I saw that had any physical differences sent me into a panic. I wish my parents had shown me from a young age different examples of people who were different from me. I would have been saved a lot of fear and panic. And I would have been a better friend and kinder person to people like Eva and Erika. Thank you Chris for showing us so many examples of amazing people and allowing them to share their stories and experiences. It will make a difference for generations to come.
It sounds like you have put in a lot of effort to change. If you ever have kids, or nieces or nephews or cousins, I am sure you will do a great job at teaching them open-mindedness. And I agree with the other commenter, comments like this are really important. Your comment will make parents reflect on what they're teaching their kids and make an effort to show their kids earlier. Some parents think they should only start teaching their kids about diversity at a later age. But the sooner a kid learns something, the easier it is not to be judgemental.
i too am saddened but more so because i actually would have been friends with them in school, but now it's far too late as I've been out of school for about a decade now.
i broke down too.. it hit too close to home as someone who also has disabilities (developmental and physical). i hope these girls will remember how loved they are and that they stay happy and confident in themselves as they grow up.
Absolutely same. It hurts to know she's been made to feel so abnormal that it shakes her like that. She and her sister are lovely girls and they deserve the absolute world
Listening to the parents, they made the right choice. Erika didn't grow at the same rate as Eva did, and nor did she speak much. It's nice they have the opportunity to do their own things and create connections to the world based on their interests and personalities. I cackled whenever Eva talked about getting angry inside her head because you can tell her parents had to talk to her multiple times you can't get mad and scream at people in public 😂. She's such an extrovert, I can see her getting into creative field when she grows up.
True, also all of that hard process teaches the parents to be better as well. I'm sure they learned alot from that if not more than the girls themselves, only that way they can guide the girls so beautifully and carefully.
Hearing Eva talk about bringing the past and their history to the forefront while explaining it to people is amazing. They’re so eloquent and inspiring.
Seeing Eva reply, “Like I’m normal” truly bursted my heart at its seams. I started to sob, not only for her feelings but also in gratitude that they both have a teacher that give them the confidence that they deserve & have inside of them. Eva & Erika, you are both the sweetest, strongest, bravest souls imaginable, & you two deserve to always feel confident, included, & loved. Thank you so much to their family for letting us get to know these precious angels, & to SBSK for giving them a platform to feel seen & better understood. Truly a moving & remarkable story.
@user-ok1xq5qm9t jeez louise. You think what you're saying is noble but it's not. It just comes off as cold and uncaring. Try having a feeling once in a while.
@user-ok1xq5qm9t such an unhealthy mindset and people who resort to this often are incapable of appropriately processing and understanding their own emotions so they completely void them instead. I think therapy would help you to understand emotions are a part of the human experience and life is extremely rewarding when you have healthy emotional tendencies and in turn healthier relationships with people and the world in general.
Same here. I wanted to reach inside and hug her both of you are very normal, maybe more so you're so intelligent ❤❤ (I believe I was in school with your dad up in Northern California go Tigers!)
These baby girls are so stinking well spoken! I can already see how their challenges are developing stronger characteristics in them than what may be seen amongst peers their own age. Pressure makes diamonds baby girls, I will pray for you two for successful lives and hearts of courage that I can already see forming. Amazing job mom and dad!
It breaks my heart that these adorable outgoing girls are ignored and ‘avoided’ at recess. It’s makes me want to yell ‘parents PLEASE educate your kids!’ Chris I wish your channel could be streamed in classrooms everywhere. I think part of the problem is kids aren’t educated about disabilities and physical differences and fear or curiosity can come off as bullying. Your videos are eye opening for us but imagine what impact they would have on kids. ❤️
Agreed. Their school should be more proactive about interactions & relationships between _all_ of the students together, much like Ruby & Avery's school is.
From the dad getting emotional about the separation & celebrating their uniqueness, then Eva crying unexpectedly, plus the twins getting sassy with each other which was genuinely hilarious… this video is a roller coaster of emotions in the best way! In love with these kids!
These girls are so bright and interesting to listen to. One is reserved and contemplative and the other seems like a little social butterfly. It broke my heart to hear them talk about exclusion at recess. When I was their age, on of my classmates wore a prosthetic leg after having his leg amputated at birth. No one in our class bullied him or excluded him because our parents educated us. I wish all parents would see the value in educating their children about other people’s differences. It makes for kind, empathetic humans.
I worked at UCLA Medical School almost 20 years ago. There was a young beautiful Asian medical student whom I interacted with for four years until graduation. She had a prosthetic on one of her hands and was hoping for a residency in Pediatrics. When she graduated, there was a segment on ABC showcasing her as having not only one working hand but also two prosthetic legs - she had lost three limbs due to a bacterial infection she caught in her native land. When I asked her why she didn't say something, she said she didn't want to be discriminated against for her handicap. I heard she switched her specialty to Infectious Diseases because babies were too difficult but let me tell you, she was one determined physician!
you can tell by every single thought expressed here by eva and erika that they're growing up in a wonderful family. they feel comfortable expressing their emotions about being treated differently because of their prosthetics. the way their mom coached them through interactions with bullies makes my heart grow
I can see their parents are so thoughtful and open about their emotions. Especially props to dad for being so willing to show what he's feeling. Those are skills so important to teach young kids, and judging by the way the girls are so emotionally intelligent and well-spoken, you can clearly see they're doing such a great job. The girls are lucky to have parents like this!
Me, too. My special kid was never invited. We had a big family. But, people were afraid of him. A sweet little Down's boy. A joy for us.❤ We realized early on that he was going to change us all, he " cleared out the dead wood", but I was surprised at who the dead wood was. You little girls must teach them.❤❤❤
@@carolbaughan8768 omg i can totally relate. I have a kid with autism and her cousins bully her when we go to parties, and even my sisters-in-law, because of this we stopped talking to my husband’s family because they are just so disrespectful.
It was interesting to hear the parents discuss the psychological reasons for separation, which were certainly valid, but I also wonder about the physiological factors. I suspect the smaller twin Erika would have eventually died if she wasn't getting nutrition, and Eva would have passed soon after if they were still conjoined. I don't see a way how both girls could have survived for too long if they had remained conjoined. I'm so glad things worked out well for them :)
When Eva cried she brought home the fact that despite all the positive spoken words about facing challenges, despite all the smiles and giggles, kids who are challenged in ways different from most kids do feel the pain of not being normal. I am 71 and have lived a very full productive life as teacher, mom, wife, farmer, RN but I was legally blind until age 8 and had many many surgeries that left one eye quite deformed and legally blind, definitely not normal. Obviously I took on challenges well but still I cried, especially in my teen years. Amazingly going off to college and gaining all new friends and experiences made the sadness fade away and tears were reserved for frustration with the physical pain that this poor withered delicate eye produces. These girls are doing well, amazingly well as indeed they should but their will be tears at times and emotional pain for the parents trying to reinforce all their positive attributes. The occasional tears and sadness are a normal part of the reality of dealing with our challenging and different bodies. Personally I think it would be great if the girls were in separate classes but their parents know them best and are trying to do right by each of them.
Thank you for sharing your story. At 43 I'm not sure I will ever fit in this world and I guess that's just going to have to be ok. I was just reading an article about Canadian twins who were put in separate classes when they came to the US. There's no good evidence that separating twins is good for them, at least not those who were not born conjoined.
Thank you. Positive affirmations are very important, but one can't simply ignore the various challenges non able bodied people go through. There will be bad days, weeks, months. I'm just coming off of having had six awful months of crippling health issues after having had possibly my six of my best months since becoming disabled, and it's very deflating. Like all my efforts I thought had resulted in those good times meant nothing, and that try as I might one can't ignore or wish away these health issues. It feels very disingenuous to my reality pretending I'm all well and good, but from what I've experienced people don't really want to hear about your toil.
@@walterroux291 good point about people listening to us. The impression I get is that they close us off when they realize there is nothing they can do to make us better when all we need is a shake of the head and a little comment such as “I am so sorry for your pain” or diagnosis or whatever. I hate to be perceived as a hypochondriac or a whiny, complaining type person but having someone just believe that my pain or emotions are real and justified goes a long way in me dealing with my day to day issues.
7:07 Mrs. Chiles is an example of the elite teachers this country benefits from in such a profound way. Unfortunately, the current environment in public education does not attract or retain these amazing folks as it should, and we'll pay for it in the future. A big cheers and THANK YOU to the educators that nourish the mind of young people both emotionally and logically, Chris Ulmer included!
Erika and Eva are two of the smartest, funniest and well spoken 3rd graders I've ever seen, and their love of life and happy nature brings pure joy to those around them. What a couple of sweethearts!
Oh my, I love these girls. Eva the talker and Erica the reserve one. So jovial. The sky is the limit and I know that you're both going to succeed. I would listen to you guys all day.
Девочки умны. Я бы даже сказала: мудры не по возрасту. Как они формулируют свои мысли и чувства! Видно, что в их воспитание вложено много любви. Родители просто герои. Очень надеюсь, что у этой семьи всё сложится, и их ждёт хорошее будущее
The mom is so right, you can actually see one is more physically developed than the other. Being a parent is not an easy job, believe me. GOD BLESS THIS FAMILY.
19:50 To make people burst into tears in a second. Dear Eva, you and your sister are TOTALLY normal. The society that thinks that you are not is NOT NORMAL. And it is changing, when you grow up, you will meet with new people who thinks you are perfectly like them. Unfortunately, we fail to raise kids showing every way of being a human. But they will learn when they grow up, at least that was the case for me :) You are amazing, just like any other kid 😊
This is my favorite SBSK interview ever. 19:20 got me crying like a baby....they are precious and I hope they learn, in time, that normal is boring and they stay proud of who they are.
I’m so glad their parents decided that getting separated was the best thing for their children. Both of them seem like they have benefited immensely from the decision!!!
I hope we have a lot of parents here showing these videos to their kids. They need to learn that we’re all people, and we all deserve love and respect.
Before SBSK, I never got to see other families in media with kids who grew up like me. I had to wear a milwaulkee brace for 13 years, brain, heart and full spinal fusion surgery, medication regimen 3x daily due to my severe Marfan syndrome. Seeing kids who go through those challenges makes me feel less alone even as an adult. The memories of social troubles in school can be hard and affect a person forever. I hope parents show their kids these videos so that those children can befriend and stand up for the kid in their class wearing a medical device or who has differences. One of the single most positively impactful channels on youtube, I love your work Chris!
@Karl with a K magicsamart, who grew up as a child with disabilities, said they wished kids would learn to stand up for people like them. And you said no they shouldn't? To a person who has been in the situation and knows what would have made them feel better?
Magic Sam, I have lived in the Milwaukee area my whole life *and I have scoliosis* but I only just learned from you that that type of brace is called a Milwaukee brace! 😊
I'm interested to hear, you have Marfan Syndrome. I also have Marfans and know the challenges and pain being treated differently by other people, because of it.
Firstly, can I say how much I appreciate the manner in which the girls were interviewed. Listening to the dad explaining the significance of the Anniversary Day really touched my heart. These parents are incredible, as is the girls' teacher. As for the sisters themselves, I am so so happy that they have been given the opportunity to find their true selves. To develop and grow in their own unique ways. They are beautiful, full of personality and strong. My next wish for them is that they find caring, supportive, fun friendship groups. More likely than not, it will happen when they are in high school, where they will be exposed to even more types of people. And there will be people who will befriend them for who they are, will look beyond the exterior and be drawn to their warm and amazing personalities ❤❤❤
"What does being confident make you feel like?" "Like I'm normal" These girls and all the people shown on this channel are teaching me so much about life. All they want is a life of dignity. Feeling happy about being yourself is all that people really need. I have 2 young daughters and I always thought the my most important job is to make them feel confident, but I found the perfect definition of what it means to be confident. You just want to feel accepted the way you are.
WOW! Eva is going to be a firecracker and a force to be reckoned with. Erica is such a thinker and so mature. Both are absolutely beautiful smart little humans!! Keep pushing them mom and dad, you guys are doing wonderful ❤❤❤❤❤❤
@@lanivelazquez5308I see you point, but if they're treated like any other child, then they'll not have the same chances like others. Hence they need to be treated according to their special needs. That's why they have a helper in the school, and that's why there's a video about them on YT in the first place. They're special.
Eva and Erika are extremely well spoken. I love how well they articulate their feelings. And how cool to have an anniversary day for their separation. What a great family! ❤
19:12 - Oh man... when Eva reveals her true feelings here... 😭. I'm so glad these wonderful girls have such a great support system. Thanks for sharing their story.
Eva and Erica have such great personalities! I'm sure this video will spread awareness and I really hope they get included in activities with their classmates. Hope they keep learning and growing!
Eva and Erika, there is nothing wrong with being “not normal”, you are so unique and that is wonderful. I have my own disabilities and I struggle a lot with “wanting to be normal” but we are good the way we are, our disabilities and our differences are a part of us and we get to teach people about them, we get to be extra proud of ourselves for every victory because we know how much harder it was for us. You guys are wonderful, keep being yourselves!
...Just commenting to say that girl is absolutely right about the significance of the name Stitch and the rest of her family is wrong! Multiple times throughout the movie, Lilo, Nani, and Stitch call themselves a "broken family." Remembering that Lilo herself names the creature Stitch (his original name is just a number, 626) the significance is obvious. Like a suture that a surgeon would use on a young girl, Lilo imagines that Stitch will reconnect her broken family and close their wounds.
I'm just absolutely astonished at how emotionally mature these two girls are. I wouldn't have a worry in the world for their future, they will definitely make it bright ❤
I’m an identical twin, and we fought at times when young but have been very close ever since. It helped to understand, respect and be compassionate about our differences. Competition is healthy but it can also hurt kids who are in the same grade at school. We were placed in different classrooms on purpose, which helped us build our own identity and friendships. These two are each adorable, inside and out.
@@emmagottlieb9379 I was wondering if you were speaking by experience for sharing same everything with a twin... instead of individual identities. I know a few twins who prefer being their own person with their own interests.
Every person in this life, has personal and independent challenges, these girls will grow up just fine! All smiles and bright eyed and they will become great adult people!!
I applaud the mum for not aborting the girls. She was in her mid forties facing only a 35% chance of a successful pregnancy and still she went through with it knowing what kind of challenges she'll face after the birth. She gave two beautiful girls to the world, and I'm sure these girls will inspire many.
they're incredibly mature, intelligent, well spoken & so beautiful. when Erika talked about being more quiet & shy, equating it to when she was tiny & could'nt vocalize absolutely blew my mind. it makes total sense.
I've watched their "Born Different" video so many times and am so glad to see an update through SBSK! Bright, articulate, and beautiful girls. Much love to Eva and Erika ❤
This is easily one of my favorite videos and definitely so refreshing. Eva & Erika are intuitive, intelligent, outspoken & have a sense of humor and understanding about life and each other. You will do great things girls I am sure of it.
3:15 Actually, I think Eva was right. That is where Stitch's name comes from. Because he stitched Lilo and Nani together as a family much like these two warrior princesses brought their family together and now everyone who knows their story
What lovely and mature girls. The separation although it must have been a tough decision was the best decision the parents made. Both girls are clearly flourishing. I wish the girls lots of success and happiness for the future 😊.
These two girls are incredible and wise beyond their years in every sense of the word! Wow! I cannot get over how articulate they are for their ages. And so empathetic.
These girls are rock solid. I love them so much. Good job mom and dad, you've done so well directing them in to being well adjusted to the world around them.
I adore these sweet girls. They are so delightful, very well-spoken, and extremely well-adjusted girls. Their parents are obviously doing an amazing job parenting, guiding them, & helping them navigate the world in such a positive way. Love them❣️
What delightful people these little charmers are! I hope the children in their class finally recognize that they could have some wonderful friends in these little ladies! They are living miracles!!!
I pray for these kids to keep being surrounded by love and support. It's something I missed in my childhood. But bad endings are worst than bad beginnings. Thank you, Chris, for doing what you do. It's very interesting, yet heartwarming, emotional, and eye-opening.
Two beautiful girls with beautiful smiles , and a wonderful outlook on life . If the other kids at their school could see the goodness in these two girls hearts , not their prosthetics , the teacher should have a discussion with the class and tell them to not be afraid , and that these girls were joined together at birth , and for both of them to survive they needed to be separated so they could live and grow . It's hard for normal kids to understand how other kids with disabilities are the way they are . Kids should be taught compassion at an early age . Bless these girls and their parents for being a strong family unit , and best wishes for them all for the future .
What precious and well-spoken little girls. I'm so glad they have parents and educators who love them so much and can bring out the best in them. Chris, what a great interview. Spoiler alert if you haven't watched the video yet: It brought me to tears when outgoing, confident Eva was asked by she likes feeling confident, and she started to sob and said "Because I feel normal." You are normal, precious little dear. And I think that's an important thing Chris does here is to illustrate that we're not all made the same and celebrate our uniqueness; at the same time, to celebrate that everyone is unique and that is what 'normal' is.
What a beautiful story about a beautiful family. Eva and Erika are sooo smart and absolutely delightful. Thank you for sharing this amazing story and journey of this remarkable family. 💙💙💙🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
These girls are fire!!! They have the smarts, the sensitivity and ALL the personality. They don't know it yet but they will eat the world!!!!! Hope to see more of them throughout the years! ❤❤❤ you go Eva and Erika!!!! Thanks for letting us know about you two
I love this interview so so much! What an endearing family and bright girls. May they never lose their sparkle and smiles! Thank you Chris for this interview!
10:17 ....The parents' hard swallows....The looking back and forth at one another deciding who would "go first..." That hit me in the gut... My heart ached for them, I held my breath and wanted to scream, "NEXT QUESTION!" These parents have went through so much more than Anyone could describe... Sending hugs and love to them for doing their Best.
Eva, you and your sister Erika are normal, amazing, smart, and very kind. Don’t worry about what people think is “normal” because that’s definitely not normal. They have an amazing father and mother. It was so touching to hear the dad choke up when talking about their separation anniversary.💜💜
When she said "normal" I'm sure she meant to "have two legs" - and that's a very normal wish for her to have. It's not normal to have only one leg, especially when you don't have a hip either. But our outer look and physical ability don't have to define our personality, and these two girls are beautiful examples to this.
I thought children bullying others was a thing of the past with all the “anti bullying” programs at school? Their story of children making fun of their prosthetics hurt my heart! These are normal, bright little girls who just want to be treated as every other kid. Hope that was dealt with and kids look past the physical differences to see how sweet these little girls are.
Such beautiful, articulate and intelligent girls. The way they talk, like little adults. So full of life and joy!! They will go far in life!! 💗Bless those little angels!!! 💗💗💗
What a sweet interview. You parents have done such a great job building your girls with confidence and being able to communicate and cope with their unique situation. 🥰
I thought it was interesting that she said she felt curious as to why kids are looking at her leg, that’s what most kids are feeling too. They should use their story to educate all the kids so that there is understanding. I work with kids and adults who have autism so have severe behavioral challenges but my daughter who is typically developing completely understands how to support her peers that have autism she has so much compassion and I make it a point to educate her on different cognitive and ability levels
these girl are so intelligent and well spoken!! i hate to hear the struggles of dealing with other kids. education about disabilities/differences is so so important. thanks chris for giving these girls a platform to share their stories!! 💓💓💓
Proof that even twins are often dissimilar just like regular siblings. If I didn’t already know they had been conjoined I would have thought they were fraternal. Good production! They’re very in touch with what they want and need.
I love these girls. When Eva cried towards the end and said "like I'm normal" I died. I love Erika, she has flourished so much. This girl needs to be playing organized basketball, I want to see her live her dreams playing ball and skateboarding. How do we make this happen?!
What an amazing story to share! It's so obvious how much effort you parents have put into helping your daughters handle and process challenges and emotions in a positive way. Broke my heart when she started crying about confidence, what a brave thing to admit to yourself and others. You all are so inspiring 🥰 loved learning about your beautiful family.
The most precious and fun little girls ever. Absolutely LOVE their personalities! It made me so sad to see Eva break down. Eva, you feel normal because you ARE normal!
What a difficult and courageous decision these parents made. It must have been so scary knowing the risks, but they did what was best. I can't imagine being conjoined and not being separated. I've watched videos of adults who are still conjoined, and I think people are doing a huge injustice by keeping them together. That's no way to live. Kudos to these amazing parents. ❤
Not every conjoined twin can be separated. And when they can be separated, half of the surgeries are unsuccessful. Don't judge. You have no idea what it means to make such a decision.
They survived the most difficult challenge of separation, and are blessed to have loving supportive parents. Conjoined twins never feel alone as they navigate their challenges together but apart.
“Like im normal “ 😭😭😭 broke my heart into a million pieces. THIS is why being a teacher (in any form of the word) is so darn important. You can change a young persons life !!!!!!! ❤
I hope some of their classmates see this and realize what fun, bright girls they are! They happen to have one leg, so what? They're just like any other girls their own age! Thanks for these interviews, Chris!
I've watched a LOT of videos about conjoined twins (Abby and Brittany, Carmen and Lupita, etc) and this is the first time I've ever heard a parent talk about one of the factors in choosing to separate twins being "balance of power," if you will. I thought that was fascinating -- that Eva and Erika's mother noticed that when the two were conjoined, one wasn't developing the same degree of personality, autonomy, expression and voice as the other, and that she sensed that if they were separated, that twin would blossom. That's really perceptive.
Wow that is so true!!
And she was right 🙂
That seems to be a common dynamic with conjoined twins, for some reason. It seems like one leads and the other follows. I wonder if any behavioral psychologist have ever studied the phenomenon.
Good mom's trust their instincts! The parents are really beautiful! You can feel the love explode from their hearts!! And Mrs.Chiles was a gift to those girls and I hope she always stays in their lives!!!
I agree I watched the Same content too.. really glad Chris covered this story ❤
Their father is obviously so full of emotion and care, even if he can't express it easily. It's easy to see who takes after who.
Yes for sure. Eva is so articulate and expressive. While the other twin has much developed motor skills. So touching and so human to hear the little girl cry when saying she wants to feel normal and her teacher has obviously had a huge impact to that effect.
I feel the same way inside...so wow that was an excellent video.
@@TinoEvembrioti I found both girls were very articulate and expressive. Eva is just more lively and dynamic in the way she expresses herself.Erika seems to be more of an introvert but they're both just as smart.
Well done to the very smart and sensitive parents
I think that the dads inability to put the separation day into words speaks way more than any words. Great interview Chris.
I felt that too
Do you mean that it was sweet/emotional? Cause that sat a little strangely with me just not sure why
When Dads cry, I cry too. It's so tender.
I could of course be wrong, but I think, what he had a hard time putting into words, was his fear of losing the girls during the separation surgery.
@@kathyhackney7950 I think he means that thinking about the day was so emotionally overwhelming that it's impossible to describe it in words.
You can see that a lot of these questions were new for the girls and they really lit up when given the opportunity to talk about what makes them unique and the challenges they face. I think it's so important that you are giving children like Eva and Erika the opportunity to reflect on what makes them unique and be given a lot of special attention because of it.
Wow, the emotional intelligence shown by both girls here just blows me away. Their parents have done an incredible job!
Agreed!! ^^
I agree !
Absolutely precious! I fell in love with them.
how the parents hold them and how comfortable the girls are answering
Very vocally intelligent, beautiful young, confident little girls ❤ ❤
I was so impressed in how happy and secure these girls are, but then when Chris asked Eva about why she likes to feel confident, her demeanour changed, the tears came and her reply “because I feel normal” just broke my heart 😪. These parents must be so proud of them though. 2 very intelligent and articulate girls, with very distinct, almost opposite personalities.
These girls are ADORABLE, very bright young girls. I think the parents made the right choice to proceed with separation.. the mom explained it beautifully when she said “the girls already HAVE LIFE, but it wasn’t INDIVIDUAL life until they where delegated”. I understand why they would do an anniversary for that day, also it’s teaching the girls to celebrate their individuality♥️
Could not agree more
So adorable! I smiled throughout the whole video!
I love your words❤ but I'm just wondering, does that mean that conjoind twins who weren't separated cannot get their individuality?
I feel like if we generalized the concept that the separation is the only way to give children their individuality it won't be fair for those who stayed conjoind for any reason
@@sundusfetian9427 I think they were more referring to their specific case, seeing that, while conjoined, one twin was not thriving, so their individuality wasn’t manifesting. Since the opportunity for separation was available in their case, they decided it was probably better for their two daughters to express their individuality more successfully, if they were separated. That might not be necessary for every set of conjoined twins and parents are keenly aware of their childrens’ personalities & health, mentally and physically, at such a young age. Some conjoined twins both thrive, live successfully individual lives, marry & even have children, all while being conjoined. Others still, may not do well, but don’t have the choice of separation due to anatomy or other factors and must learn to live with it. These twins got an outcome that seems right for them, I feel.
@@loraelstad8941 thank you so much for sharing your insight, I was curious to learn more about conjoind twins , and I get it now
I am sad to admit, I would have been one of the kids avoiding these sweet kiddos at recess. I had a big fear of the unknown and "strange" anyone I saw that had any physical differences sent me into a panic. I wish my parents had shown me from a young age different examples of people who were different from me. I would have been saved a lot of fear and panic. And I would have been a better friend and kinder person to people like Eva and Erika. Thank you Chris for showing us so many examples of amazing people and allowing them to share their stories and experiences. It will make a difference for generations to come.
I think, these are important comments, when person can admit such thing. It’s valuable. Thank you! ❤
It sounds like you have put in a lot of effort to change. If you ever have kids, or nieces or nephews or cousins, I am sure you will do a great job at teaching them open-mindedness. And I agree with the other commenter, comments like this are really important. Your comment will make parents reflect on what they're teaching their kids and make an effort to show their kids earlier. Some parents think they should only start teaching their kids about diversity at a later age. But the sooner a kid learns something, the easier it is not to be judgemental.
i too am saddened but more so because i actually would have been friends with them in school, but now it's far too late as I've been out of school for about a decade now.
@@bloodlove93True but you can show kindness and acceptance to people you encounter now.
So r u sauing you were or are frightened of pepple who have epileptic seizures....seeing them have 1. Jerking etc
19:10 When Eva said "like I'm normal" I completely broke down with her. 😢
These are such strong, smart girls
i broke down too.. it hit too close to home as someone who also has disabilities (developmental and physical). i hope these girls will remember how loved they are and that they stay happy and confident in themselves as they grow up.
Same here
Same
Absolutely same. It hurts to know she's been made to feel so abnormal that it shakes her like that. She and her sister are lovely girls and they deserve the absolute world
Same here
Listening to the parents, they made the right choice. Erika didn't grow at the same rate as Eva did, and nor did she speak much. It's nice they have the opportunity to do their own things and create connections to the world based on their interests and personalities.
I cackled whenever Eva talked about getting angry inside her head because you can tell her parents had to talk to her multiple times you can't get mad and scream at people in public 😂. She's such an extrovert, I can see her getting into creative field when she grows up.
These girls are gonna grow up to be impeccable human beings. So loving and intelligent-you can tell they have some amazing role models in their lives.
True, also all of that hard process teaches the parents to be better as well. I'm sure they learned alot from that if not more than the girls themselves, only that way they can guide the girls so beautifully and carefully.
🎉🎉p ⁷677p7ii
@Karl with a K Why bother Carl with a C? You don’t know how to punctuate!
I came to say what a lovely way to use the word impeccable.
I'm sorry you had to have some gobshite chiming in.
Hearing Eva talk about bringing the past and their history to the forefront while explaining it to people is amazing. They’re so eloquent and inspiring.
Seeing Eva reply, “Like I’m normal” truly bursted my heart at its seams. I started to sob, not only for her feelings but also in gratitude that they both have a teacher that give them the confidence that they deserve & have inside of them. Eva & Erika, you are both the sweetest, strongest, bravest souls imaginable, & you two deserve to always feel confident, included, & loved. Thank you so much to their family for letting us get to know these precious angels, & to SBSK for giving them a platform to feel seen & better understood. Truly a moving & remarkable story.
@user-ok1xq5qm9t jeez louise. You think what you're saying is noble but it's not. It just comes off as cold and uncaring. Try having a feeling once in a while.
@user-ok1xq5qm9twell you're the opposite. feeling emotional is being strong.
@user-ok1xq5qm9t such an unhealthy mindset and people who resort to this often are incapable of appropriately processing and understanding their own emotions so they completely void them instead. I think therapy would help you to understand emotions are a part of the human experience and life is extremely rewarding when you have healthy emotional tendencies and in turn healthier relationships with people and the world in general.
@@synthrilyou said this perfectly. i think in order to be a strong person, being in touch with your emotions and feelings really solidifies that
Same here. I wanted to reach inside and hug her both of you are very normal, maybe more so you're so intelligent ❤❤
(I believe I was in school with your dad up in Northern California go Tigers!)
These baby girls are so stinking well spoken! I can already see how their challenges are developing stronger characteristics in them than what may be seen amongst peers their own age. Pressure makes diamonds baby girls, I will pray for you two for successful lives and hearts of courage that I can already see forming. Amazing job mom and dad!
It breaks my heart that these adorable outgoing girls are ignored and ‘avoided’ at recess. It’s makes me want to yell ‘parents PLEASE educate your kids!’ Chris I wish your channel could be streamed in classrooms everywhere. I think part of the problem is kids aren’t educated about disabilities and physical differences and fear or curiosity can come off as bullying. Your videos are eye opening for us but imagine what impact they would have on kids. ❤️
This comment needs to be higher. I was thinking the same thing.
Totally agree, other children should be made aware of the challenges these 2 beautiful girls have faced and still face. They are beautiful.❤
Agreed. Their school should be more proactive about interactions & relationships between _all_ of the students together, much like Ruby & Avery's school is.
Some bullying may be ignorance but some is just meanness.
@@Catlily5 I agree, and they learn that behavior from their parents.
From the dad getting emotional about the separation & celebrating their uniqueness, then Eva crying unexpectedly, plus the twins getting sassy with each other which was genuinely hilarious… this video is a roller coaster of emotions in the best way! In love with these kids!
These girls are so bright and interesting to listen to. One is reserved and contemplative and the other seems like a little social butterfly. It broke my heart to hear them talk about exclusion at recess.
When I was their age, on of my classmates wore a prosthetic leg after having his leg amputated at birth. No one in our class bullied him or excluded him because our parents educated us. I wish all parents would see the value in educating their children about other people’s differences. It makes for kind, empathetic humans.
Ima weld it
Omg I 100000% agree!!!!!
I worked at UCLA Medical School almost 20 years ago. There was a young beautiful Asian medical student whom I interacted with for four years until graduation. She had a prosthetic on one of her hands and was hoping for a residency in Pediatrics. When she graduated, there was a segment on ABC showcasing her as having not only one working hand but also two prosthetic legs - she had lost three limbs due to a bacterial infection she caught in her native land. When I asked her why she didn't say something, she said she didn't want to be discriminated against for her handicap. I heard she switched her specialty to Infectious Diseases because babies were too difficult but let me tell you, she was one determined physician!
you can tell by every single thought expressed here by eva and erika that they're growing up in a wonderful family. they feel comfortable expressing their emotions about being treated differently because of their prosthetics. the way their mom coached them through interactions with bullies makes my heart grow
❤❤❤❤
A bit too much anger but yeah I think they may be okay
So cute and smart. They already look like teachers I love them both. God bless you❤❤🦋🦋
I can see their parents are so thoughtful and open about their emotions. Especially props to dad for being so willing to show what he's feeling. Those are skills so important to teach young kids, and judging by the way the girls are so emotionally intelligent and well-spoken, you can clearly see they're doing such a great job. The girls are lucky to have parents like this!
The girls are definitely very bright. I hope more of their school mates will include them
Me, too. My special kid was never invited. We had a big family. But, people were afraid of him. A sweet little Down's boy. A joy for us.❤ We realized early on that he was going to change us all, he " cleared out the dead wood", but I was surprised at who the dead wood was. You little girls must teach them.❤❤❤
@@carolbaughan8768I’m so sorry your community didn’t accept your son, I’m sure he’s a wonderful lad! 🫶🏻
They will definitely be popular!!!
@@carolbaughan8768 omg i can totally relate. I have a kid with autism and her cousins bully her when we go to parties, and even my sisters-in-law, because of this we stopped talking to my husband’s family because they are just so disrespectful.
They are really cute😭 Full of happiness🥹🫶
It was interesting to hear the parents discuss the psychological reasons for separation, which were certainly valid, but I also wonder about the physiological factors. I suspect the smaller twin Erika would have eventually died if she wasn't getting nutrition, and Eva would have passed soon after if they were still conjoined. I don't see a way how both girls could have survived for too long if they had remained conjoined. I'm so glad things worked out well for them :)
When Eva cried she brought home the fact that despite all the positive spoken words about facing challenges, despite all the smiles and giggles, kids who are challenged in ways different from most kids do feel the pain of not being normal. I am 71 and have lived a very full productive life as teacher, mom, wife, farmer, RN but I was legally blind until age 8 and had many many surgeries that left one eye quite deformed and legally blind, definitely not normal. Obviously I took on challenges well but still I cried, especially in my teen years. Amazingly going off to college and gaining all new friends and experiences made the sadness fade away and tears were reserved for frustration with the physical pain that this poor withered delicate eye produces. These girls are doing well, amazingly well as indeed they should but their will be tears at times and emotional pain for the parents trying to reinforce all their positive attributes. The occasional tears and sadness are a normal part of the reality of dealing with our challenging and different bodies. Personally I think it would be great if the girls were in separate classes but their parents know them best and are trying to do right by each of them.
Thank you for sharing your story with as well. 💜💜
Beautifully written. Thank you.
Thank you for sharing your story. At 43 I'm not sure I will ever fit in this world and I guess that's just going to have to be ok. I was just reading an article about Canadian twins who were put in separate classes when they came to the US. There's no good evidence that separating twins is good for them, at least not those who were not born conjoined.
Thank you. Positive affirmations are very important, but one can't simply ignore the various challenges non able bodied people go through. There will be bad days, weeks, months. I'm just coming off of having had six awful months of crippling health issues after having had possibly my six of my best months since becoming disabled, and it's very deflating. Like all my efforts I thought had resulted in those good times meant nothing, and that try as I might one can't ignore or wish away these health issues. It feels very disingenuous to my reality pretending I'm all well and good, but from what I've experienced people don't really want to hear about your toil.
@@walterroux291 good point about people listening to us. The impression I get is that they close us off when they realize there is nothing they can do to make us better when all we need is a shake of the head and a little comment such as “I am so sorry for your pain” or diagnosis or whatever. I hate to be perceived as a hypochondriac or a whiny, complaining type person but having someone just believe that my pain or emotions are real and justified goes a long way in me dealing with my day to day issues.
7:07 Mrs. Chiles is an example of the elite teachers this country benefits from in such a profound way. Unfortunately, the current environment in public education does not attract or retain these amazing folks as it should, and we'll pay for it in the future.
A big cheers and THANK YOU to the educators that nourish the mind of young people both emotionally and logically, Chris Ulmer included!
Erika and Eva are two of the smartest, funniest and well spoken 3rd graders I've ever seen, and their love of life and happy nature brings pure joy to those around them.
What a couple of sweethearts!
wow - impressive girls
Oh my, I love these girls. Eva the talker and Erica the reserve one. So jovial. The sky is the limit and I know that you're both going to succeed. I would listen to you guys all day.
Glad they survived the separation surgery, nice to see them happy
Are you a bot or are you subbed to EVERY channel I’m subbed to?!?
@@undacuvabrotha it's a walter
They r young but very smart and independent girls never let people stop u
Девочки умны. Я бы даже сказала: мудры не по возрасту. Как они формулируют свои мысли и чувства! Видно, что в их воспитание вложено много любви. Родители просто герои. Очень надеюсь, что у этой семьи всё сложится, и их ждёт хорошее будущее
They are SO well spoken and clearly get a lot of great opportunities to express themselves and think about how they're feeling.
The mom is so right, you can actually see one is more physically developed than the other. Being a parent is not an easy job, believe me. GOD BLESS THIS FAMILY.
"Is there anything unique about you two?"
"Yes, we have one leg" "And I have this dimple"
The innocence got me. I wish them the best.
The beauty marks cracked me up!
19:50 To make people burst into tears in a second. Dear Eva, you and your sister are TOTALLY normal. The society that thinks that you are not is NOT NORMAL. And it is changing, when you grow up, you will meet with new people who thinks you are perfectly like them. Unfortunately, we fail to raise kids showing every way of being a human. But they will learn when they grow up, at least that was the case for me :) You are amazing, just like any other kid 😊
This is my favorite SBSK interview ever. 19:20 got me crying like a baby....they are precious and I hope they learn, in time, that normal is boring and they stay proud of who they are.
Ah... My heart.
😢
Yr so right normal is overrated
Should've replayed that
I’m so glad their parents decided that getting separated was the best thing for their children. Both of them seem like they have benefited immensely from the decision!!!
I hope we have a lot of parents here showing these videos to their kids. They need to learn that we’re all people, and we all deserve love and respect.
I see intelligence in both of their shinning eyes. Which are truly lovely.
Before SBSK, I never got to see other families in media with kids who grew up like me. I had to wear a milwaulkee brace for 13 years, brain, heart and full spinal fusion surgery, medication regimen 3x daily due to my severe Marfan syndrome. Seeing kids who go through those challenges makes me feel less alone even as an adult. The memories of social troubles in school can be hard and affect a person forever. I hope parents show their kids these videos so that those children can befriend and stand up for the kid in their class wearing a medical device or who has differences. One of the single most positively impactful channels on youtube, I love your work Chris!
@Karl with a K magicsamart, who grew up as a child with disabilities, said they wished kids would learn to stand up for people like them. And you said no they shouldn't? To a person who has been in the situation and knows what would have made them feel better?
Magic Sam, I have lived in the Milwaukee area my whole life *and I have scoliosis* but I only just learned from you that that type of brace is called a Milwaukee brace! 😊
Wow marfan syndrome can be painful thanks but one of the coolest guys I know has marfan
I'm interested to hear, you have Marfan Syndrome. I also have Marfans and know the challenges and pain being treated differently by other people, because of it.
Firstly, can I say how much I appreciate the manner in which the girls were interviewed. Listening to the dad explaining the significance of the Anniversary Day really touched my heart. These parents are incredible, as is the girls' teacher. As for the sisters themselves, I am so so happy that they have been given the opportunity to find their true selves. To develop and grow in their own unique ways. They are beautiful, full of personality and strong. My next wish for them is that they find caring, supportive, fun friendship groups. More likely than not, it will happen when they are in high school, where they will be exposed to even more types of people. And there will be people who will befriend them for who they are, will look beyond the exterior and be drawn to their warm and amazing personalities ❤❤❤
"One time she used my new skateboard as a nail file." I LOST IT LOL! What a sweet pair!
I lost it then too!! And I skateboard too hahah
"What does being confident make you feel like?" "Like I'm normal"
These girls and all the people shown on this channel are teaching me so much about life. All they want is a life of dignity. Feeling happy about being yourself is all that people really need. I have 2 young daughters and I always thought the my most important job is to make them feel confident, but I found the perfect definition of what it means to be confident. You just want to feel accepted the way you are.
WOW! Eva is going to be a firecracker and a force to be reckoned with. Erica is such a thinker and so mature. Both are absolutely beautiful smart little humans!! Keep pushing them mom and dad, you guys are doing wonderful ❤❤❤❤❤❤
why should they get treated better than the class mates?
@@redbonbon2199 who said they should be treated better than others? they should be treated like any other child
@@redbonbon2199 what are you talking about and how did you come off with that after reading my comment???
@@lanivelazquez5308I see you point, but if they're treated like any other child, then they'll not have the same chances like others. Hence they need to be treated according to their special needs. That's why they have a helper in the school, and that's why there's a video about them on YT in the first place. They're special.
I saw that too
I love the personality of everyone in this family. I wish I knew more people like them. My children need friends like these.
Eva and Erika are extremely well spoken. I love how well they articulate their feelings. And how cool to have an anniversary day for their separation. What a great family! ❤
19:12 - Oh man... when Eva reveals her true feelings here... 😭. I'm so glad these wonderful girls have such a great support system. Thanks for sharing their story.
Eva and Erica have such great personalities!
I'm sure this video will spread awareness and I really hope they get included in activities with their classmates. Hope they keep learning and growing!
Eva and Erika, there is nothing wrong with being “not normal”, you are so unique and that is wonderful. I have my own disabilities and I struggle a lot with “wanting to be normal” but we are good the way we are, our disabilities and our differences are a part of us and we get to teach people about them, we get to be extra proud of ourselves for every victory because we know how much harder it was for us. You guys are wonderful, keep being yourselves!
...Just commenting to say that girl is absolutely right about the significance of the name Stitch and the rest of her family is wrong!
Multiple times throughout the movie, Lilo, Nani, and Stitch call themselves a "broken family." Remembering that Lilo herself names the creature Stitch (his original name is just a number, 626) the significance is obvious. Like a suture that a surgeon would use on a young girl, Lilo imagines that Stitch will reconnect her broken family and close their wounds.
🧡🧡🧡🧡 Reading this made me so happy!
Wrong
I'm just absolutely astonished at how emotionally mature these two girls are. I wouldn't have a worry in the world for their future, they will definitely make it bright ❤
SUCH cuties!! And so smart. They articulate themselves far beyond their age.
I love the scooting!
I have so much admiration for these parents. Praying for the whole family.
I’m an identical twin, and we fought at times when young but have been very close ever since. It helped to understand, respect and be compassionate about our differences. Competition is healthy but it can also hurt kids who are in the same grade at school. We were placed in different classrooms on purpose, which helped us build our own identity and friendships. These two are each adorable, inside and out.
That is not true. By choosing the same classroom,identity,and friendships,your life will be much better,and you never fight.
@@emmagottlieb9379Are you a twin?
@@thewildskunkwhisperer688 Fraternal. Conjoined? No.
@@emmagottlieb9379 I was wondering if you were speaking by experience for sharing same everything with a twin... instead of individual identities. I know a few twins who prefer being their own person with their own interests.
Basically, you've got two normal girls there. With one leg each...
So sweet.
Eva and Erika are so bright and well spoken! They are so in tune with who they are and the world around them! So impressed with these 2 kiddos!
Every person in this life, has personal and independent challenges, these girls will grow up just fine! All smiles and bright eyed and they will become great adult people!!
I applaud these parents. It must of been very difficult for them to make the decision. These beautiful girls have a fantastic future ahead of them. 😊
I applaud the mum for not aborting the girls. She was in her mid forties facing only a 35% chance of a successful pregnancy and still she went through with it knowing what kind of challenges she'll face after the birth. She gave two beautiful girls to the world, and I'm sure these girls will inspire many.
they're incredibly mature, intelligent, well spoken & so beautiful.
when Erika talked about being more quiet & shy, equating it to when she was tiny & could'nt vocalize absolutely blew my mind. it makes total sense.
Glad they survived the operation! This truly was a touching story and I hope these girls can enjoy the best of life now!
I've watched their "Born Different" video so many times and am so glad to see an update through SBSK! Bright, articulate, and beautiful girls. Much love to Eva and Erika ❤
They are literally so precious and the giggles are infectious! Glad to see them happy with their loving family ❤
This is easily one of my favorite videos and definitely so refreshing. Eva & Erika are intuitive, intelligent, outspoken & have a sense of humor and understanding about life and each other. You will do great things girls I am sure of it.
These children are very bright for their age. They also have contagious laughs! What a wholesome interview
I’m so proud of all of you. Parents and girls. What a beautiful, beautiful family. Brave, too.
3:15 Actually, I think Eva was right. That is where Stitch's name comes from. Because he stitched Lilo and Nani together as a family much like these two warrior princesses brought their family together and now everyone who knows their story
What lovely and mature girls. The separation although it must have been a tough decision was the best decision the parents made. Both girls are clearly flourishing. I wish the girls lots of success and happiness for the future 😊.
These two girls are incredible and wise beyond their years in every sense of the word! Wow! I cannot get over how articulate they are for their ages. And so empathetic.
Mother was very intelligent. To bad others aren't who have same kids. To be separate is a gift.
These girls are rock solid. I love them so much. Good job mom and dad, you've done so well directing them in to being well adjusted to the world around them.
I can't get over the little girls and their happy personalities!! Mom and Dad have been through so much but they've made it this far!!
I adore these sweet girls. They are so delightful, very well-spoken, and extremely well-adjusted girls. Their parents are obviously doing an amazing job parenting, guiding them, & helping them navigate the world in such a positive way. Love them❣️
What delightful people these little charmers are!
I hope the children in their class finally recognize that they could have some wonderful friends in these little ladies!
They are living miracles!!!
I pray for these kids to keep being surrounded by love and support. It's something I missed in my childhood. But bad endings are worst than bad beginnings.
Thank you, Chris, for doing what you do. It's very interesting, yet heartwarming, emotional, and eye-opening.
Two beautiful girls with beautiful smiles , and a wonderful outlook on life . If the other kids at their school could see the goodness in these two girls hearts , not their prosthetics , the teacher should have a discussion with the class and tell them to not be afraid , and that these girls were joined together at birth , and for both of them to survive they needed to be separated so they could live and grow . It's hard for normal kids to understand how other kids with disabilities are the way they are . Kids should be taught compassion at an early age . Bless these girls and their parents for being a strong family unit , and best wishes for them all for the future .
What precious and well-spoken little girls. I'm so glad they have parents and educators who love them so much and can bring out the best in them. Chris, what a great interview. Spoiler alert if you haven't watched the video yet: It brought me to tears when outgoing, confident Eva was asked by she likes feeling confident, and she started to sob and said "Because I feel normal." You are normal, precious little dear. And I think that's an important thing Chris does here is to illustrate that we're not all made the same and celebrate our uniqueness; at the same time, to celebrate that everyone is unique and that is what 'normal' is.
What a beautiful story about a beautiful family. Eva and Erika are sooo smart and absolutely delightful. Thank you for sharing this amazing story and journey of this remarkable family. 💙💙💙🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾
These girls are fire!!! They have the smarts, the sensitivity and ALL the personality. They don't know it yet but they will eat the world!!!!! Hope to see more of them throughout the years! ❤❤❤ you go Eva and Erika!!!! Thanks for letting us know about you two
I love this interview so so much! What an endearing family and bright girls. May they never lose their sparkle and smiles! Thank you Chris for this interview!
Those kids are extremely literate/well spoken/articulate. Good education whoever did it.
I hope Eva can get her own talkshow someday, she's so chatty and entertaining!
😂
10:17 ....The parents' hard swallows....The looking back and forth at one another deciding who would "go first..." That hit me in the gut... My heart ached for them, I held my breath and wanted to scream, "NEXT QUESTION!"
These parents have went through so much more than Anyone could describe... Sending hugs and love to them for doing their Best.
These girls are very mature and aware.
I had a smile on my face this entire interview. What bright, amazing girls! They both have an amazing future ahead of them.
such nice girls. I'm so happy they were safely separated.
Eva, you and your sister Erika are normal, amazing, smart, and very kind. Don’t worry about what people think is “normal” because that’s definitely not normal.
They have an amazing father and mother. It was so touching to hear the dad choke up when talking about their separation anniversary.💜💜
When she said "normal" I'm sure she meant to "have two legs" - and that's a very normal wish for her to have. It's not normal to have only one leg, especially when you don't have a hip either. But our outer look and physical ability don't have to define our personality, and these two girls are beautiful examples to this.
I thought children bullying others was a thing of the past with all the “anti bullying” programs at school? Their story of children making fun of their prosthetics hurt my heart! These are normal, bright little girls who just want to be treated as every other kid. Hope that was dealt with and kids look past the physical differences to see how sweet these little girls are.
I'm in love with them sharing a pair of shoes, I never even thought about that for twins with one leg each. They're super cute and very well spoken :)
Such beautiful, articulate and intelligent girls. The way they talk, like little adults. So full of life and joy!! They will go far in life!! 💗Bless those little angels!!! 💗💗💗
I felt the emotion in all the ways by their parents. Their parents are so proud! They’re just so special!
What a sweet interview. You parents have done such a great job building your girls with confidence and being able to communicate and cope with their unique situation. 🥰
I thought it was interesting that she said she felt curious as to why kids are looking at her leg, that’s what most kids are feeling too. They should use their story to educate all the kids so that there is understanding. I work with kids and adults who have autism so have severe behavioral challenges but my daughter who is typically developing completely understands how to support her peers that have autism she has so much compassion and I make it a point to educate her on different cognitive and ability levels
Good interview. Beautiful precious souls. Good parents and educators.
these girl are so intelligent and well spoken!! i hate to hear the struggles of dealing with other kids. education about disabilities/differences is so so important. thanks chris for giving these girls a platform to share their stories!! 💓💓💓
Proof that even twins are often dissimilar just like regular siblings. If I didn’t already know they had been conjoined I would have thought they were fraternal. Good production! They’re very in touch with what they want and need.
I love these girls. When Eva cried towards the end and said "like I'm normal" I died. I love Erika, she has flourished so much. This girl needs to be playing organized basketball, I want to see her live her dreams playing ball and skateboarding. How do we make this happen?!
What an amazing story to share! It's so obvious how much effort you parents have put into helping your daughters handle and process challenges and emotions in a positive way. Broke my heart when she started crying about confidence, what a brave thing to admit to yourself and others. You all are so inspiring 🥰 loved learning about your beautiful family.
The most precious and fun little girls ever. Absolutely LOVE their personalities! It made me so sad to see Eva break down. Eva, you feel normal because you ARE normal!
Eva and Erica are both bright lights in this world! Such smart and beautiful souls. Thank you for this interview.
What a difficult and courageous decision these parents made. It must have been so scary knowing the risks, but they did what was best. I can't imagine being conjoined and not being separated. I've watched videos of adults who are still conjoined, and I think people are doing a huge injustice by keeping them together. That's no way to live. Kudos to these amazing parents. ❤
Not every conjoined twin can be separated. And when they can be separated, half of the surgeries are unsuccessful.
Don't judge. You have no idea what it means to make such a decision.
They survived the most difficult challenge of separation, and are blessed to have loving supportive parents.
Conjoined twins never feel alone as they navigate their challenges together but apart.
“Like im normal “ 😭😭😭 broke my heart into a million pieces. THIS is why being a teacher (in any form of the word) is so darn important. You can change a young persons life !!!!!!! ❤
❤
I hope some of their classmates see this and realize what fun, bright girls they are! They happen to have one leg, so what? They're just like any other girls their own age! Thanks for these interviews, Chris!