When Andrea Makowichuk discovered she was carrying twins, she hooked into a local group offering support for families with multiple births.
"I have an older daughter too. But having twins in a completely different story," Makowichuk said. "It's not just twice as difficult - it's really hard."
The Prince George Parents of Twin and Triplets Association is re-energizing and inviting others to join or renew their membership this week.
On Tuesday, Sept. 20, the association is hosting Mom's Away night for Moms of Multiples. From 7:30 to 10 p.m. at 3006 Riverview Rd., parents and families with multiple births can meet, socialize and exchange information, something Makowichuk said is important.
"It's great to have the support of other mom's and get advice," said the mother three, who had been looking for support and information on topics such as getting her nine-month-old twins to sleep at the same time and in the same room.
The discount card that comes with the membership in the association is also a bonus, Makowichuk said.
That support is critical as it appears multiple births are becoming more frequent.
"I think in the past couple of years it's become more common, but I'm not sure why," Makowichuk said.
Aside from the September renewal event, the association also hosts free coffee get-togethers once per month, fundraising dinners and spring and fall rummage sales.
The Prince George association is park of Multiple Births Canada, which strives to improve the quality of life for multiple-birth individuals and their families. They offer an extensive network of local chapters, health-care professionals and information.
According to the national organization, there are more than 4,000 sets of twins born in Canada each year and more than 75 sets of triplets, quadruplets and quintuplets.
For more information, contact Andrea Makowichuk at 250-552-3134 or e-mail [email protected].
