Eoin & Joe Keane
In 2014, mum-of-two Anne Marie Keane and her husband John happily discovered they were expecting another child. Both parents were overjoyed by this addition to their growing family but nothing compared to the excitement felt by their two young boys Eoin, ten, and Joe, seven. In a remarkable display of self-control, both boys remained tight-lipped to their friends about their new sibling, even as their excitement doubled over when Anne Marie discovered she would be having twins. “They were so excited, they finally got to break the double news when they got to school on Monday.” Says Anne Marie.
Anne Marie unfortunately suffered a tough pregnancy but her boys were always on hand to help. Whether it was taking care of their mother or volunteering for housework, they were always there to make a bad day that little bit easier and a whole lot happier. At 34 weeks gestation Anne Marie went into early labour and her beautiful boys Cillian and Conor were born.
Anne Marie and John then discovered that both boys had Down syndrome. While they took time to come to terms with this news, they realised their family unit was stronger than ever. After explaining to the boys that Cillian and Joe would need a lot of love, care and attention from their older siblings, Eoin and Joe revealed the generous and kind nature that makes their parents so proud. Anne Marie affectionately recalls Eoin remarking, “But dad they’re our brothers, why wouldn’t we help them?”
After that the boys settled comfortably into their new roles as older brothers, protectors and role models. Not only do they spend their time building on the speech and physiology skills their brothers are learning, but they also continuously show an active interest in their progress. Anne Marie says, “They’re always really interested in hearing how they got on at appointments or wanting to know what they have to do for their next appointment.” Even babysitters confess to having little work to do when Eoin and Joe are around, as they insist on attending to their brothers in every way. Not only do they feed, dress and entertain Cillian and Conor, they even bring the boys for their naps. Still, even these inspirational helpers draw a firm line at nappy changing!
“To be honest, my husband works long hours and if it weren’t for the two boys I’d never manage. They’re fantastic little men and I’m very proud of them!” Anne Marie says.
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