Victoria and Darren Burgess know firsthand the fear and tough decisions that come with a diagnosis of Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS), the condition that Jesy Nelson’s newborn twins were also diagnosed with. The couple, from Bristol, joyfully welcomed their twins, Ezra and Arlo, who, despite early challenges, are now thriving 19-month-olds.
At just 16 weeks pregnant, a routine ultrasound revealed Victoria was carrying twins, a surprise since neither had a family history of multiples. Shortly after, they received the devastating news: one twin showed no kidneys or bladder, and the other had excess fluid—a classic sign of TTTS, a condition affecting about 10-15% of identical twins sharing a placenta.
Faced with three options—laser surgery, close monitoring, or termination—Victoria and Darren chose laser surgery to correct the uneven blood flow between the twins, just as Jesy did during her pregnancy. “Termination was never an option for us,” Darren says. The surgery was urgent, performed just a week after diagnosis to protect their babies.
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Victoria recalls the emotional rollercoaster: “I worried constantly if I’d made the right choices for the boys. I had so many MRI scans to check for development issues—thankfully, everything looked good.” Despite challenges like fluid loss and hospital visits, the twins arrived healthy via C-section at 34 weeks, supported by a dedicated team of medical professionals.
The early days were demanding. Ezra and Arlo spent time in special care; they underwent surgeries for hernias but have since blossomed into active toddlers. Victoria reflects on the intense first months filled with sleepless nights and breastfeeding struggles but remains positive. “Having twins doesn’t stop me from living life. We keep pushing forward.”
Adding to their recent challenges, Darren was diagnosed with and had surgery for a Grade 2 brain tumour, yet the couple’s resilience remains strong. They credit organizations like Twins Trust for crucial support and education throughout their journey. “Before TTTS, I had never heard of it. Finding others’ stories helped me feel less alone,” Victoria says.
Together, the Burgesses urge other parents facing TTTS to ask questions, hold on to hope, and accept help. They send heartfelt congratulations to Jesy and Zion Nelson-Foster and encourage the new parents to take breaks and seek support when needed. “Being twins means our boys will always have each other to lean on,” Victoria shares gratefully.
Their story is one of hope, courage, and determination—proof that despite the frightening diagnosis of TTTS, families can overcome the odds with the right care and unwavering love.