Dutch Couple Navigates Parenthood with Identical Triplets

Cora Heemskerk-van Tilburg (32) and Floris (36), known for their appearance on the program Meer dan verwacht, welcomed identical triplets – Cees, Teus, and Saul – in June 2024. The couple’s journey from a partnership to a family of five has been marked by both challenges and immense joy.

From Couple to Family of Five

The arrival of Cees, Teus, and Saul dramatically changed Cora and Floris’s lives. Initially, adjusting to the demands of three infants simultaneously proved tricky. “Actually incredibly good, I really enjoy it with the boys,” Cora shared, while reflecting on the experience. The couple emphasized the support they received during a particularly challenging period when all three boys contracted the RS virus, requiring Cees to be hospitalized. They alternated taking time off work and relied on a babysitter, Steef, who quickly became beloved by the triplets.

Adjusting to a Novel Normal

Life with triplets requires constant adaptation. Cora noted that while the early days with three babies felt overwhelming, things improved significantly once the boys began sleeping through the night. Both Cora and Floris balance parenthood with their careers – Floris runs his own business, and Cora recently started her own venture. They prioritize dedicating at least half an hour each day to personal time, a commitment made during Cora’s pregnancy.

A Family Addition: Dog Fredje

The arrival of the triplets also impacted the family’s canine member, Fredje. Initially an only pet, Fredje needed time to adjust to her three new brothers. “Fredje was of course always an only child, and suddenly she had three brothers. So she had to get used to the new situation. And she still does. As soon as I sit alone somewhere, she immediately comes to me,” Cora explained.

Unexpected Pregnancy After IVF Struggles

The journey to parenthood wasn’t straightforward. After struggling to conceive naturally, Cora and Floris underwent eight unsuccessful IUI attempts followed by IVF. Cora’s body did not respond well to the hormone treatments, and the IVF cycle yielded only four eggs, ultimately failing to result in a pregnancy. Following this difficult news, the couple took a vacation to Mexico in October 2023.

A Surprise Revelation

Two weeks after returning from Mexico, Cora discovered she was pregnant. Initially attributing her symptoms to jet lag, she took a pregnancy test on her sister-in-law’s suggestion and was shocked to find a positive result. An ultrasound revealed not one, but three babies. “As soon as she put the ultrasound machine on my stomach, I immediately saw two babies… she also saw a baby C,” Cora recounted. The triplets were later confirmed to be identical, a rare occurrence with odds of approximately one in two million.

Looking Ahead

Cora and Floris, together for thirteen years, are embracing the joys and challenges of raising triplets. They express gratitude for their strong partnership and the support they receive. While they don’t rule out the possibility of having more children, they are content with their growing family and open to whatever the future holds. “We certainly don’t rule it out… I would like to supply myself a different experience,” Cora shared.