Extraordinary twins

This week I read about a set of twins in British Columbia. At four years old, the sisters have astounded neurologists everywhere because of the special connection they have to each other. They are conjoined at the head and in such a way that is too dangerous to attempt a surgical separation.

Having a sister myself, it hit especially close to home. I can remember being young and stubborn, insisting that I have my own space and my own friends and not wanting my little sister tagging along. We would get in arguments like any siblings, but we would be able to hide alone behind a closed door and blow off some steam. These twins will never have that individual bubble. Whether they like it or not, they have no choice but to take turns with every move they make. Simple daily tasks are hard enough ... but as they get older and find different interests and goals, they will have to constantly bargain and compromise with the other body that is attached. And in the end, one will most likely be sacrificing something to allow the other to follow her desired path.

The miraculous thing about these twins, though, is how close they truly are. It seemed like a burden when I first gaped at the extraordinary pictures of them. But then I realized I could never possibly understand what it would feel like to join brains with someone, to have the most intimate connection at all times shared with another being. Thoughts, feelings, emotions ... they're all felt on some level by both girls. Doctors are still unsure to what extent they are able to feel each other's same tastes or touches, but it is very likely that when one twin winces while getting blood drawn, the other is cringing from the pain too. As lonely and irritating as it can be at times always thinking your own thoughts and being stuck with your own brain and your own body, I can't help but wonder what it would be like having someone always there with me.