Twins Save Mom’s Life by Uncovering Cancer

Sasha Sabrina Azeez discovered her pregnancy in April 2024 and learned she was carrying twins. This exciting phase coincided with planning her wedding to fiancé Chris. Azeez, based in Toronto, Canada, shared with Newsweek the joy she felt during this period, as she embraced each moment of her pregnancy.

At her initial ultrasound, Azeez received surprising news that she would be having twins. However, the sonographer also identified a large cyst on her ovary. Azeez explained that she hadn’t experienced any symptoms, surmising the cyst was likely present even before her pregnancy revealed it.

Azeez stated, “I had no symptoms, so the cyst was likely there before and my pregnancy led me to discover it.”

Initially measuring 9 centimeters, the cyst grew larger as her pregnancy continued. Medical professionals grew concerned and suggested surgical removal. Facing surgery at 20 weeks was daunting since the twins had to mature sufficiently to withstand the procedure.

“To be honest, we didn’t know if it was going to work,” Azeez admitted.

During the six-hour surgery, doctors removed Azeez’s right ovary and fallopian tube. The mass expanded to 19 centimeters and was identified as an immature teratoma. Though such tumors can be benign, Azeez’s was cancerous.

The Wake-Up Call She Needed

A tumultuous few months followed. Beyond standard pregnancy symptoms, Azeez felt fine but understood the need for urgent cancer treatment to ensure she could watch her daughters grow.

“I’m forever grateful my team didn’t just treat my cancer. They fought just as hard to protect my girls,” Azeez expressed.

Her twins were delivered via open abdominal procedure on October 4, 2024, at 29 weeks, weighing 2 pounds and 5 ounces each. Post-delivery, they were moved to the NICU, and Azeez underwent further surgery involving an omentectomy to remove cancerous tissue.

Chemotherapy While Postpartum

After several recovery days, Azeez started pumping breastmilk before beginning chemotherapy on October 16. Her treatment included three-week cycles and additional infusions. On December 30, 2024, she received her final infusion, marking a new chapter.

Azeez remarked, “It marked the end of one of the hardest chapters of my life.”

She reports being cancer-free now and undergoes regular tests to ensure her health remains stable. The twins, after 52 days in NICU, are flourishing, full of vitality, and lovingly called “our miracles” by the family.

“They truly saved my life,” Azeez declared.

Starting the Next Chapter

Azeez praised her fiancé Chris, who supported her through every ordeal, from recovery to caring for their twins. Although their wedding is pending, their bond has strengthened, showcasing resilience and love.

Azeez narrates her experiences on social media, inspiring others to value life. She hopes sharing her story emphasizes gratitude and the importance of living fully.

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