Kingston mother returns home with Azaria after death of separated twin Azora

A Kingston mother has returned to Jamaica with Azaria, one of her daughters who had been separated from her conjoined twin, after spending 11 months overseas for medical care. The homecoming has brought relief and grief, as she had expected to return with both girls alive, but came back only with Azaria following Azora’s death.

The mother described the moment as painful and complicated, saying it was “bittersweet” because she had prepared herself to bring both children home. Azaria’s siblings were excited to see her, though the mother said the child is still adjusting because much of her young life had been spent in hospital rather than at home.

She said the care overseas was strong, with nurses, doctors and the wider medical team looking after her and the children. The twins had been in and out of hospitals before and after their separation surgery. Azaria was discharged before Azora, who remained intubated in intensive care because of a weak heart and heart failure concerns.

Azora later surprised doctors, the mother said. Medical staff had raised the possibility that she might need a heart transplant and were uncertain what would happen when she was taken off the machine. When Azora woke up, the reaction from the team was that she was a miracle. Her mother said she was also overjoyed when Azora later stood and began taking steps, sharing the milestone with people who had followed the children’s journey online.

At home, the mother said the girls were not as closely attached to each other as some might have expected after being conjoined. Azora was described as lively, smiling, playful and deeply attached to her mother, while Azaria was more willing to go to other people.

Recalling Azora’s final illness, the mother said Azaria had a medical appointment and Azora, who had been vomiting and unusually sleepy for days, was taken along so doctors could examine her. Azora was sent to the emergency room, tested and later admitted. The mother said doctors mentioned new concerns involving her liver and a blood clot, believed to be in her brain. The next morning, while receiving medication, Azora began seizing and then stopped breathing.

Now back in Jamaica, the mother said she is trying to cope emotionally while caring for Azaria and her son.