A Birthday Like No Other: Celebrating Mariem & Fati’s Remarkable Journey

Wednesday July 30, we pause to celebrate a milestone that is both profoundly personal and deeply inspirational—the birthday of our beloved twins, Mariem and Fati.

From the moment these girls entered the world, they have been more than just patients—they have been warriors. Their lives have unfolded not just as a medical journey but as a living testament to resilience, unbreakable sisterhood, and the miraculous power of faith, science, and love.

This year, their journey reached a miraculous turning point. After months of medical preparation, they underwent a 10-hour surgery that accomplished what once seemed impossible: the final internal separation of their bodies. Arteries, veins, and tissues that once tied them together were gently divided by a world-class surgical team—made possible through your prayers, your support, and the unwavering strength of their mother, Fatou.

The twin's mother Fatou uses a knife to separate the twins on the cake at least!

Now, for the first time since birth, Mariem and Fati celebrate their birthday. They were surrounded by singing and happy faces. People came from around the hospital to share a piece of cake and wish the twins a healthy, prosperous year.

This birthday isn’t just about how old they are. It’s about how far they’ve come. It’s a celebration of every doctor, donor, and prayer warrior who stood beside them. A celebration of the mother who never gave up. Of the community that believed. And of a future no longer defined by limits, but by limitless potential.

To everyone who has walked with us on this journey—thank you. You have helped rewrite the story of these girls’ lives. Your love, your generosity, your hope made this moment possible.

And to our beloved twins:Happy, happy birthday. You are the heartbeat of JHI. Your courage inspires the world. And your journey is far from over—it’s just beginning.

With all our love and gratitude,

The Justice Health Initiative Team