In the winter of 2002, Jake and Erin Herrin welcomed twin daughters, Kendra and Malia. When they learned that their babies were conjoined, they had mixed emotions. While they were happy to have their daughters, they also wondered what challenges lay ahead.
For four years, Kendra and Malia lived as conjoined twins. Their parents eventually decided to move forward with a separation surgery, hoping to give them the chance to live independently. Since each twin had two legs, they could manage their own movements, walking and running without any problems after the procedure.
In 2006, a team of 31 doctors performed the complex separation surgery, which lasted over a day. Once the news of the surgery spread, Kendra and Malia became known to many people.
By the time they turned fourteen, they had been living separately for years. Adjusting to their new lives took time, but they gradually adapted. They attended school and also received home tutoring when needed. Both developed an interest in art and became skilled at drawing. Their strength and positive attitude inspired others, and they were seen as role models by their classmates.
Now, at eighteen, the twins continue to live full and independent lives. They have successfully completed driving school and are now experienced drivers. They also share their experiences on social media and YouTube, where they have built a large following.
Their mother, Kelly, has another set of conjoined twin daughters, Carter and Kelly. She has reached out to the Herrin sisters for advice and support. Kendra and Malia share their experiences to help guide them, offering insight into life as conjoined twins and what separation might involve.
Although no final decision has been made, Carter and Kelly are considering the possibility of separation in the future. Their parents are carefully weighing their options, just as the Herrin family once did.
