In a remarkable celebration of resilience and achievement, two former conjoined twins from Brownsville, Texas, have taken the spotlight as cheerleaders nearly ten years after undergoing a groundbreaking separation surgery. Ximena and Scarlett Hernandez Ambriz, who were born joined at the pelvis, are now competing in a state cheerleading championship in Corpus Christi, Texas, with their mother, Silvia Hernandez Ambriz, as their head coach.
The sisters’ journey began in 2016 when they were born alongside their triplet sister, Catalina. Doctors at Driscoll Children’s Hospital faced a significant challenge in separating Ximena and Scarlett. Their successful surgery provided the girls with a chance for independent lives, despite initial doubts from medical professionals about their ability to walk. “Thanks to the doctors, they’re here… walking and dancing,” Silvia expressed, reflecting on the life-changing procedure.
Today, Ximena and Scarlett not only walk but are actively participating in cheerleading. Their performance is more than just a routine; it encapsulates their family’s incredible journey, culminating in a final pose that symbolizes the beginning of their lives together. Silvia emphasized the importance of the chosen music and choreography, which narrate their story of perseverance and hope.
Support from family and friends has been a crucial part of their journey. Michelle Horine, the girls’ madrina or godmother, has been an unwavering supporter since the beginning. As the CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities South Texas, she recalls the emotional moments spent with the family during the twins’ recovery. “I was blessed to be one of the few people that was able to go into the NICU and visit them when they were still conjoined,” Horine said. Her presence during the surgery made a lasting impact, as only a select few were allowed in the waiting room.
The Hernández Ambriz family spent over a year living at the Ronald McDonald House, where they found solace and community during their recovery process. Silvia stated, “The moments that marked my life forever… I’m not going to forget this, because the people here were always there for us. When we cried, they cried with us. We never felt alone.”
The successful separation surgery not only transformed the lives of the twins but also offered a powerful message to others facing medical challenges. “It’s like they were born again,” Silvia remarked. “An example for other kids with medical conditions — if they want something, to not give up.”
As the family prepares to take the stage together, they celebrate not just their triumph over adversity but also the joy of being together as a complete unit. Their story stands as a testament to resilience, hope, and the transformative power of medical care, inspiring many along the way. With bright lights shining down, Ximena and Scarlett are ready to show the world that their journey is just beginning.
