A doctor delivered what he believed to be distressing news to a couple eagerly anticipating twins. However, upon meeting their adorable children, the parents found themselves unable to reconsider. Abigail and Isobel Parry are a one-in-a-million pair of twins, born with Down syndrome in June 2011, a miracle for their parents, Jodi and Matt Parry.
The couple’s decision to embrace their daughters evoked a mix of emotions. Jodi recalls a doctor explaining the test results and expressing remorse, a sentiment she struggled to comprehend. Despite their initial fears when learning about the twins, Jodi and Matt eventually realized that their daughters could still lead a happy life.
But everything changed for Jodi and Matt when their daughters, Abigail and Isobel, came into the world. Despite initial concerns, Jodi had overcome her apprehension, stating, “[The doctor] expressed regret that Abigail and Isobel had Down syndrome. To this day, I have no idea what he was sorry about.” Her husband shared the sentiment, emphasizing that he was unfazed by his daughters’ chromosomal counts.
Although aware of the potential developmental delays their twins might face, the parents remained optimistic about their children’s future. Both Abigail and Isobel were born prematurely and required critical care for four weeks. Despite the challenges they faced upon leaving the hospital, Jodi and Matt found them all to be worthwhile.
Abigail and Isobel have brought immense pride to their parents with their accomplishments. In 2017, the twins shared some insights into their lives, radiating joy. According to their mother, they have only brought goodness into the world. While their medical needs may require frequent appointments and check-ups, their lives are filled with even more love, hugs, and smiles.
The sisters attended a regular school and used everyday terms like “mom,” “dad,” and “Finn.” Finn, their older brother, is deeply devoted to his sisters and can’t imagine life without them. He acknowledges that having sisters with Down syndrome means he has to help them a bit more than if they didn’t have the condition because they may learn at a slower pace.
The daughters’ joyful play on a trampoline in their backyard in Chorley, Lancashire, exemplifies the family’s optimistic outlook on life. Despite their challenges, the parents are incredibly proud of their children and wouldn’t change a thing about them. “Nothing in the world could convince me to change them,” Jodi asserts. “Life with Down syndrome is a life worth living,” she adds.
Jodi expressed a desire to meet the doctor who apologized once again. She explains:
“I’d like to show him Abigail and Isobel and say, ‘Why did you say sorry because we wouldn’t change Abigail and Isobel for anything in the world now?'” Jodi expresses, highlighting the positive impact her daughters have had on their lives. Despite the additional doctor’s appointments and check-ups, their lives are filled with an abundance of love, hugs, and smiles.
Driven by their love for their daughters, the devoted parents established a charity in their honor called the “Princess” movement. This initiative aims to educate the public, dispel common myths, and highlight the positive aspects of raising a child with Down syndrome. “It’s all about celebrating achievement, rather than focusing on what they can’t do,” Matt emphasizes. Everywhere they go, Abigail and Isobel bring happiness with them.
All Jodi desires for her children is the opportunity to thrive in life. She recognizes their potential and wants the world to understand that a diagnosis of Down syndrome doesn’t have to upend everything. Abigail and Isobel have excelled in school, and their communication skills continue to improve daily. While they primarily use sign language, they delight in spreading joy wherever they go.
The adorable siblings became a topic of much discussion on the internet, with people unable to contain their admiration for the two young toddlers and their contagious joy:
“Small darlings, look at how happy they are. I’m sure you’re very proud of them.” – Annette Roberts, July 4, 2016
“Don’t they look adorable? They seem eager for the first day of school!” – Jean Gregson, July 4, 2016
“What a beautiful pair of angels! God bless you both as you navigate the challenges of school. I’ll keep you in my prayers!” – Nancy Weybright, July 4, 2016
“Wishing you a joyful first day of school. I love your outfits, and you both seem to be having a wonderful time. Best wishes in everything you do; remember to keep smiling and stay happy.” – Marie Camp, July 3, 2016
Jodi and Matt are truly blessed with their daughters, Abigail and Isobel, who bring them immense joy and happiness.