Oldest Living Conjoined Twins Receive Help From WNY Group

By Kyla Igoe

July 9, 2010 Updated Feb 3, 2010 at 6:49 PM EST

Ronnie and Donnie Gaylon, of Dayton Ohio, have been conjoined since birth. Now, age the of 58, they are the world's oldest living conjoined twins.

Despite facing many challenges while growing up, they've always been independent and for years they helped support their family of 11 by traveling around with carnival circuits. But with deteriorating health, and arthritis taking a toll on their bodies, Ron and Don now require 24 hour assistance. Living in a small home that's not handicap accessible is also posing a problem for the twins.

Now, thanks to the Christian Youth Corps, a local group out of Machias, NY and generous sponsors the twins will be more mobile. The group is building an addition onto the twins brother's house so they can receive the care they need, and finally have space that is more functional. The group is also working with businesses nationwide to make Ron and Don a custom bed, shoes, and wheelchair.

Construction for the project is expected to start in March. Even though the project is in Ohio, the group is welcoming volunteers from the Western New York area to help in their efforts. They are also reaching out to local contractors for generous donations. For more information about the project visit: http://christianyouthcorps.bfn.org/

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