Parents look forward to the first birthday of their children. It is one of life’s milestones, much like the first dance at their wedding or high school graduation. But, for Brianna Manns the first birthday of her sons, Kameron and Kaydon Hayes, is bittersweet. You see, the boys are conjoined twins, sharing a liver and a malformed heart. Separating the boys is not an option and neither is a heart transplant. Born at 37 weeks, the boys were never expected to survive. One year later, all are calling them a medical miracle.
Like any good mother, Manns has been with them almost every day. Once she completes her duties as a home health care provider, Brianna makes the 90-minute commute to Illinois Medical Center to spend time with the boys. Over the course of the year, she has marveled at their personality growth. Kaydon is laid-back and likes to nap. Kameron is curious and social.
Only Kaydon remains on a ventilator and they are down to one drug to strengthen their heart. At some point, as they continue to grow, the one broken little heart won’t be able to sustain both boys. The surgeons and the boy’s mother are very clear about the prognosis: at any moment they could be gone. That is why this birthday is so special that it warrants a big Elmo birthday cake. Elmo’s big fuzzy smile makes us happy and reminds us of what is important in this topsy-turvy world. If you have an extra prayer, Kaydon, Kameron and their mom would appreciate it if you would direct it their way. With any luck, Elmo will again be with them this time next year.
–annsonita robinson
