Twenty-four years ago, Grace Collins’ parents, Bridget and William, decided to expand their family and give their three-year-old son, Liam, a sibling. Facing challenges with conception, Bridget underwent hormone therapy, opting for intrauterine insemination (IUI) rather than IVF. This treatment led to an unexpected outcome: quintuplets. The family welcomed Grace, her brothers Paddy and Aidan, and sisters Betsy and Claire on September 9, 1996.
Growing up as one of six children presented its unique set of challenges and adventures. The household was always bustling, requiring Bridget to manage her large brood single-handedly, often necessitating a 12-seater van for transportation. Sibling disputes were inevitable and intense, with alliances forming among the children during their quarrels.
To cope with the demands of such a large family, Bridget eventually enlisted the help of three nannies. Despite the financial strains, marked by hefty grocery bills and rare dining out experiences, the Collins family forged a strong bond. Grace recalls that they seldom ate at restaurants, preserving such outings for special occasions. Now, the grown children reciprocate by treating their mother.
Romantic relationships were another aspect impacted by the quintuplets’ close-knit nature. In high school, Grace found dating challenging, as her siblings knew everyone in her circle. Nowadays, while the quintuplets reside in different cities and meet less frequently, they maintain strong connections through smaller gatherings.
The quintuplets have always attracted attention, especially on their birthdays. For Grace, being a quintuplet is an intrinsic part of her identity, filled with its own unique rewards and memories. Despite the trials, the siblings cherish their shared experiences and the resilience they have built as a family.