Christmas Miracle: Gold Coast Twins Defy Medical Challenges
By The Queenslander Staff
In an inspiring turn of events, Gold Coast twins Lucas and Bailey Edwards are set to celebrate their first Christmas at home after overcoming significant health challenges. Born prematurely at just 27 weeks on February 1 at Mater Mothers’ Hospital in South Brisbane, the identical twins, now 10 months old, have spent several months in separate Queensland hospitals.
Their parents, James and Casey Edwards of Ashmore, described the experience as a “rollercoaster.” The twins, who weighed less than a kilogram each at birth, faced severe health issues. Bailey and Lucas were diagnosed with Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) and Twin Anaemia Polycythaemia Sequence (TAPS) in utero, conditions stemming from sharing one placenta and leading to unequal blood flow.
The complexity of their condition necessitated a referral to Dr. Glenn Gardener, a Maternal Fetal Medicine specialist at Mater Mothers’ Hospitals. Despite undergoing TTTS laser surgery, the risks remained high, leading to the decision to deliver the twins prematurely via caesarean section.
The boys’ early months were fraught with challenges, including a separation where Lucas remained at Mater and Bailey was transferred to Gold Coast University Hospital. Lucas also faced aortic stenosis, a heart valve disease, necessitating two major heart surgeries at Queensland Children’s Hospital. Meanwhile, Bailey dealt with breathing and cardiac issues but has shown significant progress.
Their father, James Edwards, shared the emotional journey, noting the extensive traveling Casey undertook to visit their sons and the anxiety surrounding their health. He expressed immense gratitude for the medical care that saved their lives and joy at having the family together for the holidays.
As they approach Christmas, the twins show encouraging signs of growth, with Bailey now weighing 6.7kg and Lucas 5.09kg. This festive season marks a special milestone for the family, celebrating the resilience and recovery of Lucas and Bailey.
