What to Know
- Jadon and Anais McDonald have posted the fastest recovery time from craniopagus surgery at just six weeks
- The twins entered rehab shortly after Thanksgiving, less than two months after their 27-hour separation surgery
- Most separated twins take several months to heal from surgery
Christian and Nicole McDonald have a lot to be thankful for this year: their twin sons, Jadon and Anias, have recovered from their 27-hour separation surgery in a record six weeks.
Previously conjoined at the head, the 14-month old boys underwent the operation, called craniopagus surgery, at Montefiore Hospital in October. The twins entered rehab only six weeks after surgery — a fraction of the months-long hospitalization most separated twins endure.
"Historically, this will be the fastest [recovery]," Dr. James Goodrich, the surgeon who performed the procedure, told CNN.
Their mother, Nicole McDonald, expressed her gratitude and relief for their recovery in a photo she posted to Facebook on Thanksgiving, reminding others to give thanks not just during the holidays, but every day.
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"Don't let this be the only day to be grateful," she wrote. "Let everyday, even the hard ones, give you a reason to give thanks."
Despite the outpouring of supportive messages sent by many, others have left hurtful and disparaging comments about the twins' physical appearance, which hasn't fazed their mom.
Although Jadon and Anias are still far from home, the distance hasn't stopped them from spending time together as a family; the couple took turns caring for the twins on Thanksgiving and brought the boys' older brother, Aza, along.
