A New Chapter for Azaria and Azora Elson: Journey to Separation Surgery
On July 28, conjoined twins Azaria and Azora Elson arrived at King Abdullah Specialist Children’s Hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, ready to embark on a life-changing journey. Their arrival marks a significant milestone not just for the twins, but for the collaborative efforts of medical teams across the globe.
A Historic Flight
The twins’ journey began on July 27, when they boarded a flight from Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica. This wasn’t just any flight; it set a new international record as the longest medical evacuation, lasting an impressive 18 hours. Saudi Medevac operated the flight, with Dr. Mostafa Hassan leading a dedicated medical team that ensured the safe transport of the twins and their mother, Iesha McMurray.
A Lifeline from Jamaica
The University Hospital of the West Indies (UHWI) played a crucial role in the twins’ care from the very beginning. Diagnosed during pregnancy at Victoria Jubilee Maternity Hospital, Iesha was transferred to UHWI’s High-Risk Pregnancy Unit. At 35 weeks, a Caesarian section was performed by Dr. Nadine Johnson and Dr. Tiffany Hunter-Greaves, bringing the twins into the world. Neonatologists Dr. Blondel Crosdale and Professor Minerva Thame were on hand to resuscitate the girls, ensuring they received immediate care.
Ongoing Support
For the past 19 months, Azaria and Azora have been under the watchful eyes of a multidisciplinary team at UHWI. After spending their first eight months in the Newborn Special Care Unit, they continued to receive comprehensive support on the general pediatrics ward. Professor Celia Christie-Samuels, a senior consultant pediatrician at UHWI, emphasized the hospital’s commitment to the twins’ care. “From the moment we were alerted to the twins’ condition, our multidisciplinary team was mobilized to ensure the best possible support for them and their family,” she said.
International Collaboration
The journey to Riyadh was made possible through a remarkable collaboration between UHWI and international medical institutions. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, represented by Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, played a vital role in establishing communication with the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KS Relief) in Saudi Arabia. This center, renowned for its expertise in separating conjoined twins, has successfully completed 66 surgeries under the guidance of Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Rabeeah.
A Community Effort
Fitzgerald Mitchell, CEO of UHWI, expressed gratitude for the support received from both local and international partners. “This operation symbolizes the incredible potential of collaborative care,” he noted. The success of this endeavor is a testament to the hard work of medical staff and the invaluable assistance from partners in Saudi Arabia.
Looking Ahead
As Azaria and Azora prepare for their separation surgery, they carry with them the hopes and prayers of many. Their journey is not just a medical one; it’s a story of resilience, community, and the power of collaboration. With the support of dedicated professionals and loving family, the twins are on the brink of a new chapter in their lives. What does the future hold for these brave little girls? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: they are not alone on this journey.