When a doctor delivered what he believed was devastating news to a couple expecting twins, he never could have imagined how wrong he would be. After meeting their beautiful daughters, Abigail and Isobel, Jodi and Matt Parry knew without a doubt they had made the right decision — and they have never looked back.
Born in June 2011, Abigail and Isobel are truly one-in-a-million twins, both born with Down syndrome — a reality their parents consider nothing short of a miracle.
At first, the news stirred complicated emotions. Jodi remembers the doctor explaining the test results and apologizing, something that confused her deeply. She recalled, “[The doctor] expressed regret that Abigail and Isobel had Down Syndrome. To this day, I have no idea what he was sorry about.” Matt shared her sentiment, saying he never cared about their daughters’ chromosomes — he only cared that they were his.
When the couple learned they were expecting twins with Down syndrome, they feared their world would change forever — and it did, but in the most beautiful way. Although they understood their girls would face developmental delays and extra health challenges, they were determined to focus on the positive.
Born prematurely, Abigail and Isobel spent four weeks in critical care before coming home. Life brought many hurdles, but every single one was worth it. Over time, the girls thrived, bringing boundless joy to their family.
By 2017, the family proudly shared glimpses of their life, filled with love, laughter, and plenty of hugs. Jodi often says that while they may have a few more doctor appointments, they also have a lot more smiles and moments of pure joy.
The girls attended a mainstream school and spoke simple, happy words like “mom,” “dad,” and “Finn” — their beloved older brother, who proudly helps his sisters when they need it. Finn explained, “Down syndrome means I have to help my sisters a little more, but I love them and can’t imagine life without them.”
Photos of Abigail and Isobel jumping gleefully on the trampoline at their home in Chorley, Lancashire, capture the family’s positive spirit perfectly. Despite challenges, Jodi and Matt are endlessly proud of their daughters and wouldn’t change a thing. “Nothing in the world could persuade me to change them,” Jodi said. “Life with Down syndrome is a life worth living.”
She often wishes she could find that doctor again to show him just how wrong he had been. “I’d love to show him Abigail and Isobel and say, ‘Why did you apologize? We wouldn’t change a thing about them.’”
Their love for their daughters inspired Jodi and Matt to start a charity called “Twincess.” The mission? To educate others about Down syndrome, challenge outdated stereotypes, and celebrate every achievement, no matter how big or small. As Matt said, “It’s about highlighting what they can do, not focusing on what they can’t.”
Today, Abigail and Isobel continue to amaze — excelling at school, developing their communication skills (often using sign language), and spreading smiles wherever they go.
The twins’ story touched thousands online. Admirers left heartfelt messages, praising the girls’ infectious happiness:
“Little darlings, look how happy they are. You must be so proud!” — Annette Roberts, July 4, 2016
“Don’t they look adorable? They’re surely excited for their first day of school!” — Jean Gregson, July 4, 2016
“What a beautiful pair of angels! God bless you both!” — Nancy Weybright
“I wish you a joyful first day of school! Your costumes are adorable — always remember to smile!” — Marie Camp, July 3, 2016
Without a doubt, Abigail and Isobel are among God’s greatest gifts to their proud parents, Jodi and Matt.