World’s first surviving septupletsWorld’s First Surviving Septuplets Celebrate Life, College and Milestones

In 1997, Kenny and Bobbi McCaughey of Iowa welcomed the world’s first surviving septuplets: Kenny Jr., Alexis, Natalie, Kelsey, Nathan, Brandon, and Joel. Born nine weeks early, the babies made headlines globally and even appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show.

Life was busy for the family of nine, with the children requiring dozens of bottles and diapers daily. Donations, including a home, van, diapers, and college scholarships, helped the McCaugheys manage the extraordinary household. Two of the septuplets, Alexis and Nathan, were diagnosed with cerebral palsy, but Nathan later learned to walk independently after surgery.

Today, all seven have graduated high school and pursued higher education or careers. Natalie, Kelsey, Nathan, and Joel attended Hannibal-LaGrange University, Kenny and Alexis stayed local at Des Moines Area Community College, and Brandon joined the U.S. Army. The septuplets’ story remains a remarkable example of perseverance and family dedication.