The likelihood of having twins has indeed risen significantly over the years. Between 1980 and 2018, the chances jumped by an impressive 72 percent. Yet, even with this increase, twin births remain relatively uncommon, with about 33 out of every 1,000 births resulting in twins. Identical twins are rarer still, with only three or four out of every 1,000 births yielding a set of identical twins, making it an even more unusual occurrence.
In this exceptional context, a young woman named Savannah Combs experienced a rare situation that changed her life profoundly. Savannah, at just 23 years old, discovered she was expecting twins, a revelation that filled her with joy and anticipation. However, as she learned more about her pregnancy, she encountered another surprise—one that brought a mix of emotions. Both of her twin daughters were diagnosed with Down syndrome, a condition that added an extraordinary layer to their lives and journey together.
The news was a lot to process, bringing an emotional depth to Savannah’s experience. Savannah and her husband, Justin Ackerman, were aware of the judgment they might face from others regarding their children’s condition. Despite this, Savannah found strength in embracing her daughters just as they were. To her, the twins’ unique traits made them even more precious, a sentiment she proudly shared in an interview. “It’s very rare what they have, but they’ve been my little gems,” she expressed, revealing her profound love for her daughters.
Savannah, a resident of Middleburg, Florida, chose to share her journey with others, documenting her experience as a mother to her twins, Kennadi Rue and Mckenli Ackerman. Using social media as a platform, she posted updates on TikTok, allowing her followers to witness the day-to-day beauty and challenges of her life with her daughters. Her honesty and openness quickly resonated with viewers, who began following her story.
In one of her videos, Savannah recounted a heartbreaking suggestion she had received early in her pregnancy. Some advised her to terminate her pregnancy, believing her daughters might not survive. However, Savannah felt deeply that her twins deserved a chance. “Every prenatal appointment where they were still alive was a blessing to me,” she said, underscoring her determination to carry her daughters despite the uncertainty.
During the pregnancy, her husband was away at boot camp, leaving Savannah to navigate much of this emotional journey on her own. At 29 weeks pregnant, she faced a new challenge as she was admitted to the hospital and ultimately gave birth to her daughters earlier than expected. Kennadi and Mckenli made their entrance into the world on May 12, 2021, nearly two months ahead of their due date. Because of their premature arrival, the twins spent several weeks in the NICU, where they received the specialized care needed to strengthen and prepare for life at home.
Savannah later explained that her daughters are considered “mono di twins,” which means they each had their own sac but shared a single placenta. This unique condition already makes such twins rare, and combined with their Down syndrome diagnosis, the likelihood of such a case is staggeringly low—estimated at about one in two million.
As the twins grew, Savannah quickly learned that despite their condition, her daughters were just like other children in many essential ways. “They have feelings. They have a beating heart. They know how to talk and do the things you do. They will get there,” she shared, expressing her faith in their abilities and resilience. She also acknowledged that while her daughters might experience certain developmental milestones at their own pace, they would achieve them with time and patience.
@savannahcombs1♬ original sound – Down With The Ackerman Twins
Savannah documented these milestones on TikTok, sharing her daughters’ accomplishments and growth with a loyal following. Each update showcased their adorable personalities and determination. “I’m going to let them know that they’re just like us, and as long as they put their minds to it, they’ll get there,” Savannah said, confident in her daughters’ potential to thrive.
However, not all responses to her story were positive. Some individuals felt compelled to voice harsh judgments and criticisms, questioning Savannah’s choice to raise her daughters. One comment, in particular, was especially insensitive, stating, “I wouldn’t want those babies; if mine came out like that, they would be straight up for adoption.” Savannah, who is no stranger to such attitudes, responded with grace and strength. She shared her reply, saying, “Good thing they weren’t born to you and were born to me. God knew what he was doing by giving these babies to the right parents who would love them regardless.”
Savannah’s response reflects her unwavering commitment to her daughters and her belief that every child deserves unconditional love and acceptance. The young mother has endured more than her share of negative comments, yet she continues to share her story publicly, hoping to spread awareness and understanding of Down syndrome. She wants the world to recognize the beauty and joy her daughters bring into her life.
Kennadi and Mckenli are a reminder that every child, regardless of differences, possesses a unique spirit and potential. Savannah’s journey as their mother exemplifies resilience, love, and the courage to defy societal expectations. Her openness about the joys and challenges she encounters sheds light on the experiences of families with children who have Down syndrome, a condition often misunderstood or stigmatized. Through Savannah’s perspective, her daughters are not defined by their condition but by their personalities, dreams, and potential.
In Savannah’s eyes, her daughters are precious gifts, and she is determined to give them a life filled with love, opportunities, and acceptance. With each new step her twins take, Savannah embraces the journey, allowing her story to inspire others who might be facing similar challenges. Her resilience and dedication reflect the power of parental love, and her advocacy highlights the importance of embracing all children, regardless of their differences.