Ten years ago, twin boys Albert and Benson Tass from Mackay faced a life-threatening challenge. At just 3-4 weeks old, they underwent open heart surgery due to valve problems. Their case was unique and left a lasting impression on their surgeon, Dr. Nelson Alphonso.
“It’s very, very unusual,” Dr. Alphonso said. “Having two twins at the same time with a related heart defect is something you’ll remember for the rest of your life.”
The journey was tough for the twins and their family. Their mother, Maria Tass, recalls the emotional turmoil of not being able to hold her babies for a month. “I was sad all the time, but trying to be positive,” she said. The twins were immediately taken to Paediatric Intensive Care (PICU) after their birth, and it was a challenging time for the family, especially when Benson had to be readmitted due to complications.
Despite the hardships, the twins pulled through. “It was all very touch and go, but he [Benson] came out on top … we’re very lucky,” Ms. Tass said. Now, ten years later, Albert and Benson are living life to the fullest. They have even taken up rugby league, with approval from their medical team.
Their father, Mr. Tass, admits that upcoming check-ups still bring back difficult memories. “I feel sad because I reflect on what they’ve already been through,” he said. However, the family remains positive and focuses on letting the boys enjoy life while still keeping them safe.
Benson has a unique way of describing his surgery. “When I was a baby, I had surgery and I’ve got a cow’s vein put into me,” he said. Dr. Alphonso clarified, “Not quite. It’s bovine pericardium, which is used in cardiovascular reconstruction.”
The family is looking forward to reuniting with Dr. Alphonso next month for the twins’ check-up. “I won’t recognize them, because they were small babies, but they’ve grown up and are running around playing footy … it will be good to talk to them,” Dr. Alphonso said. He is impressed by their resilience, saying, “They surprise me with their toughness.”
Albert and Benson’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of medical science. They continue to inspire those around them with their courage and zest for life.
