Welcoming twins is always a special experience. Though twin births have increased by 72% since 1980, they still only occur in about 33 out of every 1,000 births. Identical twins are even rarer—just 3 to 4 per 1,000.
For 23-year-old Savannah Combs, the joy of expecting twins came with surprising news: both of her daughters were diagnosed with Down syndrome—a condition that’s incredibly rare among identical twins.
Savannah and her husband, Justin Ackerman, knew this journey wouldn’t be easy and that others might not understand. But to Savannah, their differences made her daughters even more precious.
“They’re rare, but they’re my little gems,” she told News4JAX.
From her home in Middleburg, Florida, Savannah began sharing her family’s journey on TikTok. Her heartfelt updates about twins Kennadi Rue and Mckenli Ackerman quickly connected with viewers, earning widespread support.
In one emotional video, Savannah revealed that doctors had suggested she terminate the pregnancy—something she refused. Instead, she embraced every heartbeat as a gift.
At 29 weeks, while her husband was away at boot camp, Savannah was hospitalized and gave birth on May 12, 2021. The twins arrived early and spent time in the NICU before heading home.
She later explained that her daughters are “mono di” twins—identical twins who shared a placenta but had separate amniotic sacs. “Mo di twins are rare, and having both with Down syndrome makes it a one-in-two-million situation,” she shared.
Even with such a rare diagnosis, Savannah says her girls are just like other kids.
“They feel love, they have beating hearts, and they’re learning and growing every day. Maybe at a slower pace, but they’re doing it,” she said. “They’re full of joy and spirit.”
Savannah continues to post their milestones on TikTok, using her platform to promote love, acceptance, and hope.
She’s also focused on raising confident daughters. “I’ll always remind them they’re capable of anything,” she said.
While the internet hasn’t always been kind—some even suggesting she give her daughters up—Savannah’s response was full of grace.
On Facebook, she wrote: “Good thing they weren’t born to you. They were born to me—someone who will love them unconditionally. God knew what He was doing.”
Through every post, Savannah’s deep love for Kennadi and Mckenli shines. Her story is a beautiful reminder that true beauty is found in love, acceptance, and celebrating every child for who they are.
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