Kendra and Maliyah Herrin were born as conjoined twins in 2002, joined at the abdomen and sharing one pair of legs and a single kidney. From birth, their parents faced the difficult decision of whether to keep them together or undergo a separation surgery. It was a tough choice, but they ultimately decided to give the girls a chance to live independent lives.
In August 2006, at the age of four, Kendra and Maliyah underwent a complex 25-hour surgery at the Primary Children’s Medical Center in Salt Lake City. A team of over 30 surgeons and specialists worked meticulously to separate the girls without causing major damage to their small bodies.
The surgery was a success, but the road to recovery was long and challenging. After the separation, Maliyah required dialysis since she had shared a single kidney with her sister. After several months of treatment, she underwent a kidney transplant, receiving a kidney donation from their mother to ensure a healthier future.
After the surgery, Kendra and Maliyah had to learn how to live independently—something that comes naturally to most people but was an entirely new experience for them. They spent months in physical and psychological therapy, learning how to move, walk, and navigate their newfound independence.
Despite facing many challenges, the girls grew up with a strong spirit and an unbreakable bond. Although they were physically separated, they remained inseparable in heart and mind. Their family played a crucial role in supporting them through their health and emotional struggles.
Now, at 22 years old, Kendra and Maliyah have built their own individual lives while remaining extremely close. They share their experiences on social media, inspiring thousands of followers with their extraordinary journey. To many, they are a symbol of strength, resilience, and determination.
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