UPDATE: In a remarkable and heartwarming event, East Orange couple Aja and Emmanuel Volmar welcomed quadruplets on July 1, 2023, marking a rare and joyful milestone for their family. This incredible feat of parenthood comes with odds of one in 700,000 for naturally-conceived quadruplets, making their story even more extraordinary.
The Volmars, already parents to an 8-year-old son, have expanded their family from three to seven, with the arrival of Ean, Evan, Alayha, and Eamon. Aja’s pregnancy was notably smooth, as she successfully carried the babies for 34 weeks without complications, a significant achievement given the associated risks of such pregnancies, including gestational diabetes and placental issues.
The newborns are now home after brief stays in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Eamon was the first to graduate from NICU after just eight days, followed by Ean after 11 days, Evan at 14 days, and Alayha after 18 days. The couple shared touching moments of reunion, with Aja expressing joy at seeing the babies snuggle together, reminiscing their time in the womb.
“This journey has been filled with excitement and a touch of anxiety,” Aja stated. The couple, both working full-time—Aja as a United States Postal Service employee and Emmanuel as a truck driver—has turned to their community for support through a GoFundMe campaign. With a goal of $24,000 to cover baby essentials, medical expenses, and lost income, they have raised about 20 percent so far.
Aja revealed she had a hunch about having twins but was taken aback during a routine ultrasound when she discovered the surprise of triplets. “I was expecting twins, but not triplets. Then to hear I was having a girl, I was overwhelmed,” she shared. Emmanuel, who was on the road during the ultrasound, was equally shocked when he received the news.
As preparations ramped up, friends and family organized a surprise baby shower, celebrating the growing family. Aja, who maintained her work schedule throughout her pregnancy, credited her activity level for her lack of complications. “It’s four human lives in there, and the fact that I was able to feel every single one of them move was definitely an enjoyable moment,” she reflected.
The couple’s faith and support from loved ones kept their spirits high, even during labor. Aja and Emmanuel documented their journey on social media, gaining a following of over 35,000 supporters who have been captivated by their story. Aja’s Instagram updates have shared both the challenges and joys of their pregnancy.
As the delivery day approached, the couple experienced a mix of emotions. “I was worried about her because I didn’t want to lose her,” Emmanuel admitted, recalling the tense atmosphere as Aja prepared for a cesarean section with a team of over 20 doctors present. Despite initial fears, both mother and babies emerged healthy.
Now at home, big brother EJ is taking his new role in stride, eager to help with diaper changes and feedings. “It’s a big deal for him to go from being an only child to having four siblings in one shot,” Aja said. “He loves it.”
Aja’s sister-in-law, Terika, expressed her admiration for the family’s deep bond. “The love they have for each other is beautiful,” she remarked. The Volmars’ inspiring journey is a testament to resilience, love, and the miracle of life, as they embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure filled with excitement and support from their community.
With the Volmar family now embracing this new chapter, they continue to receive love and encouragement, reminding us all of the incredible strength found in family and community support.