The McCaughey septuplets (in birth order--Kenneth Robert, Alexis May, Natalie Sue, Kelsey Ann, Nathan Roy, Brandon James, and Joel Steven) are the world's first surviving set of septuplets. Identical Triplet Sisters A multiple birth results when more than one human baby is born from a single pregnancy. ...

They were born in Des Moines, Iowa on November 19, 1997, nine weeks prematurely, to Kenny and Bobbi McCaughey (pronounced "McCoy"), residents of the nearby town of Carlisle. The septuplets have one older sister, Mikayla Marie (born January 3, 1996). Des Moines skyline, as seen from the Iowa State Capitol. ... November 19 is the 323rd day of the year (324th in leap years) in the Gregorian Calendar. ... 1997 (MCMXCVII in Roman) is a common year starting on Wednesday of the Gregorian calendar. ... Carlisle is a city located in Warren County and Polk County, Iowa. ... January 3 is the 3rd day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. ... 1996 (MCMXCVI) was a leap year starting on Monday of the Gregorian calendar, and was designated the International Year for the Eradication of Poverty. ...

The septuplets were conceived as the result of fertility drugs. When the couple discovered that Bobbi was carrying seven fetuses, they declined selective reduction to reduce the number of fetuses, saying that they would "put it in God's hands." As the result of being born prematurely, several of the septuplets have medical problems; for example, Alexis and Nathan have cerebral palsy. Fetus at eight weeks Foetus redirects here. ... Selective reduction (or fetal reduction) is the practice of reducing the number of fetuses in a multifetal pregnancy (i. ... Cerebral palsy or CP is a group of permanent disorders associated with developmental brain injuries that occur during fetal development, birth, or shortly after birth. ...

The birth attracted significant media attention, both positive and negative. The McCaugheys were the recipients of many generous donations, including a 5,500 ft² house, a van and a lifetime supply of diapers.

At birth, the septuplets weighed: Kenny: 3lbs. 4oz. Alexis: 2lbs. 11oz. Natalie: 2lbs. 10oz. Kelsey: 2lbs. 5oz. Nathan: 2lbs. 14oz. Brandon: 3lbs. 3oz. Joel: 2lbs. 15oz.

Bobbi McCaughey homeschooled most of the children for several years but all are now attending local public schools. They all studied violin during the academic year 2004-2005; several of the septuplets and Mikayla have continued for a second year.

External links

• Unofficial McCaugheys Septuplets Site M.U.M.S.S