Rare Identical Twins with Down Syndrome Are Called “Little Gems” by Their Proud Mom
While the likelihood of giving birth to twins has risen significantly—up by 72% between 1980 and 2018—twin births remain relatively uncommon. Today, about 33 out of every 1,000 births are twins, with only three to four of those being identical twins. That’s already rare.
But what happened to 23-year-old Savannah Combs of Middleburg, Florida, was even more extraordinary. She found out she was pregnant with identical twin girls—and then came even rarer news: both of her babies had Down syndrome.
“It’s very rare what they have, but they’ve been my little gems,” Savannah told News4JAX.
Despite the emotional weight of the diagnosis and knowing the world can be judgmental, Savannah and her husband, Justin Ackerman, chose love, hope, and resilience. She decided to share their journey openly on TikTok, where her daughters quickly captured hearts across the platform.
Savannah Refused to Give Up on Her Babies
Savannah revealed in one TikTok video that doctors had advised her to consider terminating her pregnancy. But she couldn’t imagine giving up on her babies.
“Every appointment they were alive was a blessing to me,” she explained.
While her husband was away at boot camp, Savannah carried their daughters until 29 weeks. She was admitted to the hospital early and gave birth to her twin girls—Kennadi Rue and Mckenli Ackerman—on May 12, 2021.
Born Premature, but Full of Fight
Born two months early, the twins spent several weeks in the NICU before they were healthy enough to go home.
“They’re called mono-di twins,” Savannah explained. “It means they had their own sacs but shared the same placenta, so they’re identical.”
“Mo-di twins as it is—it’s very rare. Then you throw Down syndrome on top of it, and it’s like one in 2 million.”
Savannah Champions Their Abilities
While the girls’ condition is medically unique, Savannah is quick to point out that her daughters are just like any other children—with milestones, emotions, and endless determination.
“They have feelings. They have a beating heart. They know how to talk. They know how to do things you do. They will get there.”
She shares regular updates on TikTok, celebrating each milestone. “I’m going to let them know they’re just like us,” Savannah said, adding that her daughters may take a different path, “but they’re going to do it.”
Facing Cruelty With Grace and Strength
Sadly, not everyone online has shown kindness. Savannah has received cruel messages about her daughters. One user even wrote, “I wouldn’t want those babies; if mine came out like that, they’d be straight up for adoption.”
Savannah’s response was full of quiet strength.
“I said, good thing they weren’t born to you and were born to me. God knew what he was doing by giving these babies to the right parents who would love them regardless.”
A Message of Hope and Acceptance
Through her journey, Savannah continues to shine a light on love, acceptance, and the strength of her family. Kennadi Rue and Mckenli Ackerman may have been born with a rare genetic condition, but their lives are filled with joy, purpose, and a mother who calls them her “little gems.”
Their story is a powerful reminder that all children—regardless of diagnosis—deserve love, respect, and a chance to thrive.
Let’s lift this beautiful family up with love. Share their inspiring story so more people can see the beauty in differences and the power of unconditional love.
