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Stacy and Babajide Omirin, a Black couple from Lagos, Nigeria, embarked on a journey to expand their family after welcoming their firstborn, Demilade.
So when their pregnancy was confirmed, they were overjoyed — especially when they discovered they were expecting twin boys.
When Stacy gave birth to the twins, though, elation was mixed with astonishment and intrigue.
Because while one — Daniel — was Black like their parents and with a mop of black curly hair, the other — David — has paperwhite skin and golden curls.
Twins can be different in appearances, sure, but such stark differences might not be so.
Love Unquestioning
On the outset, it was normal for Stacy to be concerned about how her husband, Babajide, would react to their sons’ dissimilar appearances. This ccould have branched into a multifaceted problem if not dealt with care, and it would have been a shame since this healthy childbirth should have been a time for celebration.
But that worry quickly dissipated. Without questions, Babajide showed overwhelming love for both newborns, even coining a loving nickname for his white son, David, right there and then: “Mr. Golden.”
Beyond this being a mere term of endearment, it can also be taken as a symbol of Babajide’s unquestioning love and dedication as a father and husband.
And on the familial level, it is a precedent wherein the arrival of a child is treated as a golden opportunity for love, growth, and shared experiences for both parents — regardless of any unexpected hitches.
Why the different skin colors, then?
As it turns out, David is diagnosed with albinism, a genetic condition characterized by the absence of melanin or the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color.
Albinism transcends gender and race, affecting individuals irrespective of their roots. And in Nigeria, the prevalence of this condition is particularly high.
Albinism in Nigeria
Research has it that the prevalence of albinism in South African countries like Nigeria is at an estimated range of 1/5,000 people to 1/15,000 — making the condition a significant issue.
Coupled with the following concerns, Nigerian individuals diagnosed with albinism are specifically made more vulnerable:
Albinism commonly results in visual impairments (e.g. reduced visual acuity), an increased sensitivity to sunlight, and a higher susceptibility to skin cancers.
Because of these, not only do the affected individuals have to deal with their starkly different appearance, but they also have to fight for adequate access to healthcare so they can live a quality life despite the health issues that come with their condition. And since healthcare isn’t that accessible in Nigeria particularly in the rural areas, it proves to be another major obstacle.
However prevalent albinism is in Nigeria, those diagnosed with the condition are still often stigmatized and discriminated. Myths, misconceptions, and superstitions surrounding albinism persist in some communities, which are taken by other people as solid ground for social exclusion, discrimination, and even violence against individuals with albinism.
One such myth — which was found to be perpetuated by traditional healers — is that the body parts of people with albinism, when used in potions, can bring good luck to whoever will consume it.
With these scenarios on the horizon, there is an increased risk for a psychosocial impact on the affected individuals, which can lead to low self-esteem and mental health issues.
- Education and employment challenges
Visual impairments can pose significant obstacles to education for children and adults with albinism. Specialized educational support, such as large-print materials, magnifiers, and assistive technologies, may be required to facilitate learning. In some cases, individuals with albinism may benefit from attending schools for the visually impaired, but not everyone may have the means for it.
Down the line, their livelihood is at risk of being negatively affected, too. It can be due to existing health issues, or due to persisting discrimination.
Fortunately, in recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the challenges faced by individuals with albinism in Nigeria. Advocacy groups and organizations have been working to raise awareness about albinism, provide support, and advocate for the rights and inclusion of people with albinism in various aspects of society.
Nigerian authorities have also taken steps to combat discrimination and violence against individuals with albinism. For one, there have been legal efforts to address discrimination and punish those who engage in harmful practices related to albinism.
Living with Albinism for David
In a stroke of luck, David doesn’t face the typical health concerns associated with albinism. This then serves as a compelling illustration that this condition’s impact can vary from one person to another, its diagnoses far from being one-size-fits-all.
Beyond their common appearance, people with albinism are diverse — punctuated by their day-to-day experiences at home and outside of it.
The entire Omirin also couldn’t be more grateful that they have yet to encounter any sort of hurtful comments not only about David (Mr. Golden) but also about Daniel. In fact, people see this as a unique charm of the twin boys, sparking good-natured curiosity and conversations wherever they go.
Stacy is often asked whether both boys are her own given their obvious differences; she does not take offense, though, because for her, these inquiries are simply grounded on the intrigue that their family’s story piques.
This level of acceptance and understanding is crucial, really. For the Omirin twins, it afforded them modeling opportunities among others, prompting Stacy to create an Instagram account where she now shares their journey as well as raise awareness about albinism in general.
While this makes for a demonstration on the growing destigmatization among individuals like David, continued efforts in combatting discrimination against them and in raising awareness about the condition remains to be crucial to cultivate an environment that is ever-kind and inclusive.
More of the Omirin Twins
Curious about the Omirin twins? Their Instagram account is a good start in taking a peek at their adventures.
From photos to videos, the page is populated with content that will give you a closer look at Daniel and David — who are now four years old — and sometimes even the rest of the Omirin family.
They also have a YouTube channel, which you may want to keep tabs on for more of these kids.
Past their skin colors and hair styles, the twin boys are sure growing into their individualities. As with any twins, Daniel and David will be their own persons, and it will be a delight for their parents.
Proving How Far Unconditional Love Can Go
The story of the Omirin family is a testament to the power of love and understanding in leading a life filled with goodness, especially when received both from the family itself as well as the community.
Twin boys Daniel and David could have been in a far different situation today if they were treated with less compassion, but they weren’t and so they are thriving now in an environment that makes it possible.
This loving family and community dynamic aside, their story also invokes the need for proactive efforts in advocating and raising awareness for health conditions like albinism, which tends to be received with discrimination and even violence, so as to foster a society where no child (nor adult) is left behind — and everyone is given the same opportunities for a healthy, quality life.
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