Welcoming twins is always a memorable moment. While twin births have risen by 72% since 1980, they’re still relatively rare—occurring in about 33 of every 1,000 births. Even more uncommon are identical twins, seen in just 3 to 4 of every 1,000 deliveries.
For 23-year-old Savannah Combs, the excitement of carrying twins was mixed with unexpected news—both of her daughters were diagnosed with Down syndrome, a rare and unique scenario.
Savannah and her husband, Justin Ackerman, knew they might face challenges and judgment from others, but Savannah only saw beauty in her daughters’ differences.
In an interview with News4JAX, she said, “It’s very rare what they have, but they’ve been my little gems.”
Living in Middleburg, Florida, Savannah began sharing her family’s journey on TikTok, posting about her twins, Kennadi Rue and Mckenli Ackerman. Her authenticity and love quickly resonated, and her story gained attention and admiration online.
In one video, she opened up about being advised to terminate her pregnancy—advice she firmly rejected. Instead, she cherished every moment, celebrating each heartbeat as a miracle.
At 29 weeks pregnant, while her husband was away at boot camp, Savannah was hospitalized. On May 12, 2021, she gave birth to her daughters, who arrived prematurely and spent time in the NICU before going home.
Savannah explained that her girls are “mono di” twins—sharing a placenta but having separate sacs—meaning they are identical. “Mo di twins are already rare, and then adding Down syndrome makes it a one in two million chance,” she said.
Despite the rarity of their condition, Savannah is quick to remind everyone that her daughters are just like other kids.
“They feel. They love. They have a beating heart. They can learn, talk, and grow. Maybe they’ll do it a little slower, but they will do it. I’ve learned they’re spirited and joyful little humans,” she said.
As the twins reach new milestones, Savannah continues to share their progress on TikTok, spreading a message of hope, resilience, and unconditional love.
She’s also committed to building confidence in her daughters. “I’ll always remind them they’re just like anyone else and can achieve anything they put their minds to,” she said.
Of course, not everyone understands. Some people have made cruel comments—one even saying they’d give up children like hers for adoption.
Savannah’s response was powerful. On Facebook, she wrote, “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 unconditionally.”
The love Savannah has for Kennadi and Mckenli shines through every word, every post, and every moment she shares. These girls, like all children, bring warmth, laughter, and joy into the world—proving that true beauty lies in love and acceptance.
They are absolutely beautiful—and anyone who can’t see that clearly has no idea what love really looks like.