Samsun mother shares 16-year struggle raising twins with disabilities

In Samsun, Turkey, Zeynep and Yusuf Bitirgan have spent 16 years caring for their twin sons, Talip and Resul, who were born prematurely. The family has faced significant developmental challenges, with Resul living with an intellectual disability and Talip receiving an autism diagnosis at age three.

Zeynep Bitirgan described the difficulties of managing daily life, noting Talip’s sensory sensitivities, dietary selectivity, and aversion to crowds. Despite early medical warnings that the children might require permanent respiratory support or hospitalization, the family has focused on their children's development and education.

The twins currently attend the Zafer Special Education Vocational School in Atakum. The parents expressed their hope that vocational training will allow their sons to gain independence and future professions. Zeynep Bitirgan encouraged other families in similar situations to remain hopeful and resilient.