Mum of ‘Miracle’ Cork Twins Honored as 2025 Family Carer of the Year Award Winner
In a remarkable recognition of resilience, Angie Benhaffaf, a mother from Cork, has been honored as the 2025 Family Carer of the Year. This accolade comes nearly 16 years after the birth of her conjoined twins, Hassan and Hussein, who faced life-threatening challenges right from the start.
Birth of the Conjoined Twins
On December 2, 2009, Angie Benhaffaf gave birth to Hassan and Hussein, conjoined from chest to pelvis. The twins shared vital organs including a liver, gut, and bladder, and together weighed seven pounds. Doctors had raised serious concerns during Angie’s pregnancy, indicating the likelihood of survival was grim. Despite this, Angie remained determined to support her sons.
Surgery and Challenges
Four months post-birth, Hassan and Hussein underwent a complex 14-hour surgical separation at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, involving 20 medical professionals. Since then, the twins have endured significant medical challenges, including a staggering total of 75 surgeries.
- Birth Date: December 2, 2009
- Weight at Birth: 7 pounds
- Number of Surgeries: 75 to date
Recognition for Dedication
Angie’s unwavering commitment to her sons has not gone unnoticed. She was recently awarded the Cork Carer of the Year title, where organizers highlighted her ability to inject joy into their lives despite ongoing challenges. They commended her talent for creating special moments and her approach to instilling confidence in her sons.
Supporting Young Athletes
Under Angie’s guidance, both Hassan and Hussein have excelled as para-athletes, representing Ireland with distinction in sports like wheelchair basketball and athletics. Her advocacy extends beyond her family, as she has also raised over €105,000 for children’s charities through her annual Cork Wears Red Annual Charity Lunch.
Community Praise
Angie’s contributions to her family and community have sparked wide recognition. Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy at Family Carers Ireland, emphasized her story as an inspiring example of resilience and love. She noted the importance of recognizing family carers as integral parts of Ireland’s health system.
Local community leaders, including Michael Mulcahy of the Little Island Business Association, also celebrated Angie’s recent accolade, echoing sentiments on the necessity of supporting family carers across the nation.
Looking Forward
As the Benhaffaf family prepares to celebrate the 16th birthdays of Hassan and Hussein in just five days, there is a profound sense of hope and gratitude. Angie’s journey serves as an inspiring narrative of strength, showcasing the extraordinary contributions of caregivers in society.
