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Celebration held for once conjoined twins

Posted at 5:15 PM, Nov 08, 2012
and last updated 2012-11-09 08:57:26-05

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR)- It's been a year since doctors at the Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU performed a first of its kind surgery, separating two conjoined twins from the Dominican Republic.

On Thursday, a celebration was held, marking the occasion.

Doctors said they wanted a way to mark the major milestones Maria and Teresa Tapia have made since the 22-hour surgery to separate them.

Before, the two girls were conjoined at the chest and abdomen. Now, both girls dance and play on their own.

The girls' mother, who spoke with the help of an interpreter, thanked the doctors and hospital staff for the celebration, saying she is truly humbled by everything they have done for her daughters.

The girls will continue to return to Richmond for annual check-ups.