On the ultrasound screen, the expectant mother saw two hearts. Annabelle and Isabelle shared a liver, intestines, bladder, and one leg.

Each had their own leg, but their bodies were so tightly intertwined that even experienced surgeons could not immediately say if separation would be possible and safe.

The birth took place in March 2022 at University College Hospital in London. Immediately after birth, the girls were transferred to one of the UK’s best children’s hospitals.

There, doctors began a long preparation for surgery — not only to “separate” the bodies, but to ensure that each girl could live and develop independently.

Months passed. The medical team studied scans, 3D models of organs and blood vessels, and practiced on virtual simulations.

In September 2022 came the day that was both feared and eagerly awaited. More than thirty specialists gathered in two adjacent operating rooms to carry out the many-hour operation.

After eighteen hours of intense work, Annabelle and Isabelle lay on separate operating tables for the first time. Each still had one leg of her own. Despite the loss, both survived.

Weeks of intensive care followed, with dozens of dressing changes and additional surgeries. In total, the girls have undergone about twenty surgical procedures since birth.

Today, Annabelle and Isabelle are growing up like ordinary sisters. They have different personalities: Annabelle is more talkative, loves attention, and enjoys singing, while Isabelle is calmer but very active and determined.

They attend physiotherapy sessions, are learning to use special orthoses, and are preparing to receive prosthetic limbs.