Suvechha Sarkar
On TLC’s ‘Body Bizarre,’ viewers get an in-depth look at the lives of individuals with rare and extraordinary medical conditions, witnessing stories that are both emotional and eye-opening. The series also documents the resilience, family bonds, and life-changing medical breakthroughs. In season 8, episode 1, aptly titled, ‘Born As One Sister,’ the spotlight falls on the twin sisters, Erika and Eva Sandoval. They were conjoined at birth, with their survival reportedly deemed uncertain by medical experts. However, their parents’ dedication eventually paved the path for them to undergo a serious medical procedure that provided Erika and Eva with a new life of their own.
Erika and Eva Sandoval Defied the Odds and Underwent a Life-Changing Surgery
Aida and Arturo Sandoval welcomed their twin daughters, Erika Rose and Eva Victoria Sandoval, into the world on August 10, 2014. They were born conjoined at the upper abdomen and lower chest area. Although both Erika and Eva had their own lungs and hearts, they shared several other anatomical structures in their lower bodies, including two kidneys, a bladder, and their intestines. As per reports, before they were born, doctors had already given their parents the warning that the conjoined twins might have only about a 30% chance of survival. Yet, as the months passed, new concerns emerged. While Eva appeared to be growing steadily, Erika seemed to be shrinking, raising fears about her development and long-term health.
The pivotal moment arrived when Erika and Eva got the chance to be separated through a complex surgery. On December 6, 2016, they underwent the medical procedure at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto, California. A team of 50 medical professionals —surgeons, nurses, and specialists — worked tirelessly through a 17-hour operation to separate the twins. Although there was a high risk during the surgery, it was ultimately successful. Although the procedure left Erika and Eva with one leg and a large surgical scar, they didn’t step back from learning to move independently. Their mobility improved drastically as they learned to use walkers and were fitted with custom prosthetic legs. Erika soon caught up to Eva in both size and strength, and over time, the twins gained their own physical space.
Erika and Eva Are Navigating School Life Alongside Their Personal Interests
Following the surgery, Erika and Eva Sandoval faced a new reality that demanded patience, strength, and determination. Their biggest challenge was regaining mobility, but they made progress by learning to sit before gradually transitioning to wheelchairs. By 2018, they were fitted with prosthetic legs, marking an important milestone in their journey. With time, they began walking confidently without assistance. After months of dedicated efforts and support from loved ones, the twins were attending kindergarten just like any other child their age. In September 2020, they were interviewed on ‘Born Different’ alongside their mother, Aida Sandoval. On that show, they shared their journey with a broader audience, discussing their interests, such as reading and sports.
In April 2023, Erika and Eva were interviewed by the team of the show, ‘Special Books by Special Kids,’ which was later featured on YouTube in June of that same year. By May 2023, the twins reached another significant milestone in their lives by appearing in their first commercial for SCHC Care. In the following August, they visited the UC Davis Children’s Hospital for an event. As of writing, their parents continue to document their journey on Facebook, where over 4.1K followers have shown their support. It seems the twins are now thriving and likely gearing up to enter sixth grade in 2026. Over the years, the twins’ personalities have blossomed in distinct ways.
Aida once shared that while Eva is outspoken and bold, Erika tends to see the brighter side of everything. When asked about their dreams, the latter mentioned that she wants to play basketball once she grows up, while the former hopes to become a veterinarian one day. Both girls also disclosed that they love reading, further highlighting their strong individual interests. According to Aida, Erika, and Eva, despite their incredible progress, they sometimes face discrimination. Erika stated during an interview that she dislikes it when others stare at her prosthetic leg, while Eva feels that people can sometimes be unkind. Nevertheless, the 11-year-olds seem to be embracing life with their unwavering spirit.
Erika and Eva Embrace Childhood Adventures With Their Parents’ Support
Beyond the spotlight, Erika and Eva live a life rooted entirely in the love for their parents. The twins have often shared that, like any other sisters, they have their fair share of fights. However, their bickering often stops when they are playing with their toys. As they have grown, Eva has turned her attention to trying out different hairstyles to excitedly show her teachers and friends at school. Erika, on the other hand, is a true sports lover who enjoys playing soccer. Birthdays often remain among Erika and Eva’s favorite celebrations, filled with joy, decorations, and the warmth of their family.
In March 2024, Erika and Eva made notable personal progress with the guidance of their dedicated trainer. Surrounded by their family, both of them went snowboarding, overcoming another obstacle with courage and excitement. They also cherish festive traditions, especially Halloween, when they dress up in creative costumes and celebrate together. Through every step of the way, the immense love their parents have for them always shines through. From doctor’s appointments to snowy playdates and family picnics, Aida and Arturo always cheer Erika and Eva on at every step.
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