Tanya Hall, aged 30, and her husband Kris, aged 41, residing in Hessle, Yorkshire, encountered a harrowing ordeal when they learned that their triplets were at risk due to twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). This life-threatening condition was diagnosed during a 19-week scan, resulting in an uneven blood flow among the triplets, endangering all three babies. The dire situation necessitated immediate action, and Tanya underwent life-saving surgery on the same day the condition was diagnosed. Despite the surgery, the odds were stacked against them, with doctors expressing doubts about the survival of one of the babies.

Tanya’s pregnancy was complicated, leading her to spend seven weeks under medical supervision. Against all odds, the triplets—Rupert, Austin, and Ethan—were born prematurely at 31 weeks on April 26. The couple, both working in research and development in healthcare, welcomed the triplets, and after a challenging journey, the babies are now settling into their home.

The surgical procedure involved laser ablation to correct the blood-sharing imbalance. TTTS, occurring in around 15 percent of monochorionic diamniotic twins (identical twins sharing the placenta), poses serious risks to the babies’ health. Survival rates for TTTS in triplets are lower than in twins, with only 65 percent surviving the surgery.

Tanya’s pregnancy faced additional complications, including a shortened cervix, increasing the risk of premature labor. Despite the challenges, Tanya managed to hold off labor until 31 weeks, allowing the triplets a fighting chance at survival.