Premature Twins Overcome Odds

Fewer than 1% of all babies in this country are born before 28-weeks of gestation.
But an Odessa family has experienced a two-year roller coaster of emotions, after their twin daughters were born pre-mature.
Kaitlyn and Kynadi Lee are all dolled up and ready for their big day at "school."
It's actually a therapy session at the Permian Basin Rehab Center, where the girls work hard twice a week.
The 17-month old twins have come a long way.
Born at just 26-weeks, each weighing about two pounds, their start in life can only be described as traumatic.
Mom Courtney Lee says, "The doctors in Houston told me they were both going to be vegetables and I wouldn't be able to take care of them. He even said we could go to Europe and get an abortion."
But Courtney and her husband Matt had faith.
And they believed these girls were something special.
"The whole time they were kicking me and keeping me awake. So I didn't think anything could be wrong. I think the power of prayer is why they're here."
After 16 surgeries, countless doctors appointments, and plenty of tears - the girls have overcome the odds.
"I mean they've proved everyone wrong."
Now, they are fully engaged in mastering each developmental stage, thanks to physical, occupational and speech therapy.
"I wanted something very aggressive."
That's exactly what they found at The Rehab Center.
"I was a little "ify" at first because it was strangers. And I didn't know if they would love my babies as much. But come to find out, I think they love them more."
Each 90-minute session is carefully choreographed.
And the hard work is disguised as a playtime.
But every small accomplishment moves them closer to independence.
And that's what this mom is counting on.
"I was told they'd know the commands of a dog. So this is a miracle."
She begins to cry, but they are tears of joy and hope, as she considers the dreams she has for their futures.
"To be happy and healthy.
Kaitlyn and Kynadi Lee will serves as the representatives for this year's "Care-a-Thon" benefiting the Permian Basin Rehab Center.

Category:

Entertainment

Tags:

• Kaitlyn
• and
• Kynadi
• Lee
• Premature
• Twins
• Permian
• Basin
• Rehab
• Center
• Care-a-Thon