Angie pens towering tale of hope about Little Fighters’ first year

THIS time last year, Ireland’s miracle twins, Hassan and Hussein Benhaffaf, were in London awaiting a high-risk operation to separate them.

But almost a year to the day, the thriving boys will be in Cork today for the launch of their mother Angie’s book, The Little Fighters: The Million-To-One Miracle.

Publishers Gill & Macmillan describe it as “a raw and honest story of devastation and courage under fire”, and a story that is “ultimately a towering story of hope”.

It includes personal family photos and chronicles the twins’ remarkable journey, from the day of their birth to their successful operation.

The book is written by Angie, with journalist Edel O’Connell, and will be officially launched in Eason’s on St Patrick’s Street at 3pm by Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin, who supported the family during his time as Foreign Minister.

Today’s book launch will be the culmination of a remarkable week for the family, which included a red-carpet reception at Number 10 Downing Street.

The family met British Prime Minister David Cameron on Wednesday just hours before the pioneering surgeon who separated them was honoured at the Children’s Champions Awards gala dinner at the plush Grosvenor House Hotel on London’s Park Lane.

The awards celebrate those who go further than anyone else to make a positive difference to the lives of children.

Cork-born surgeon Dr Edward Kiely was nominated for an award by Angie for separating the twins and saving their lives.

Little Hassan and Hussein had a million-to-one chance of survival when they were born joined at the chest in December 2009.

But thanks to Mr Kiely and his team at Great Ormond Street Hospital they are now thriving following a marathon 14-hour operation on April 7, 2010.

Mum-of-four Angie, 36, who lives in Carrigtwohill, said: “This is my way of saying thanks for giving my boys separate lives. When you’re in total awe you can’t find the words.”

The awards judges included Man United and England giant Rio Ferdinand, Gavin and Stacey star James Corden, singer and I’m A Celebrity favourite Stacey Solomon, pop pin-up Peter Andre, BBC sports anchor Gary Lineker, Dancing on Ice judge Emma Bunton, and Olympic legend Seb Coe.

Angie said one of the highlights of the visit was when Peter Andre held the twins during the reception at No 10.

“It was just so special for our family to be in London for such a joyous event,” she said.

“We’ve all come such a long way since this time last year. It was our first time on a plane to London as a family without all the stress. Every other time we’ve been over here, it’s been for tests or operations. But this was great.”

The awards ceremony was opened by X-Factor guru Simon Cowell and was hosted by Big Brother presenter Davina McCall.

- Highlights of the Children’s Champions gala awards will be screened on Sky Living HD tomorrow at 6.30pm.