BREAKING: In a remarkable and heartwarming event, Aja and Emmanuel Volmar of East Orange welcomed four healthy babies on July 1, 2023, marking a joyful yet rare occasion in the world of childbirth. This extraordinary family now expands from three to seven, as they embrace quadruplets—Ean, Evan, Alayha, and Eamon—conceived naturally without fertility treatments.
The odds of such a natural occurrence are astonishingly low, estimated at roughly one in 700,000, according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Despite the inherent risks associated with multiple pregnancies, Aja carried her babies for an impressive 34 weeks without complications, shocking medical professionals.
All four newborns were successfully released from the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), with Eamon being the first to go home after an eight-day stay. Ean followed after 11 days, Evan after 14 days, and Alayha completed the family reunion after 18 days. “It’s just nice to see them reunited and laying on the bed,” Aja Volmar expressed, highlighting the emotional bond they already share.
The Volmars, who also have an 8-year-old son, Emmanuel “EJ” Volmar Jr., have turned to their community for support during this challenging yet exhilarating journey. With no federal mandate for paid parental leave, the couple launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of $24,000 to cover essential expenses such as baby supplies, medical costs, and lost income. As of now, they have raised about 20 percent of their target. “We’re reaching out to our friends, family, and community for help as we navigate this once-in-a-lifetime journey,” the Volmars stated.
Aja’s pregnancy journey took many unexpected turns. Initially assuming she was expecting twins, Aja’s world turned upside down during a routine ultrasound when she was informed of the impending arrival of triplets. “That one blew me away because I was expecting twins, but not triplets,” she recalled. The final twist came during a follow-up appointment when a fourth baby, a girl, was discovered, leading to tears of joy for Aja.
Emmanuel Volmar, who was on the road at the time, received the news from his sister-in-law in disbelief. “I was overwhelmed with joy, anxiety, everything,” he said. Their son EJ embraced the news with excitement, eager for brothers to play with, and was equally thrilled to learn he would also have a sister.
As the pregnancy progressed, the couple prepared for their new reality while maintaining their jobs. Aja, a full-time employee of the United States Postal Service, credits her active lifestyle for the smooth pregnancy, while Emmanuel works as a truck driver. Their journey has been filled with moments of anxiety and joy, culminating in a delivery day that required a cesarean section attended by an estimated 20 doctors.
“I pretty much was worried about her because I didn’t want to lose her,” Emmanuel confessed, reflecting the anxiety parents often feel during such significant medical events. However, Aja felt reassured by Emmanuel’s presence, stating, “When you have someone who you know loves you in the room with you, it takes a weight off.”
All four babies arrived without complications, and Aja shared the moment she met them: “I couldn’t take them home all at once, but that gave me a chance to connect with each one of them.” Despite their names beginning with the same letter, Aja knows her children well, noting their distinct characteristics.
Big brother EJ has taken on his new role enthusiastically, often offering to help with diaper changes and feedings. “It’s a big deal to go from being an only child for eight years to now having four siblings in one shot,” Aja said, emphasizing the warmth and love that permeates their household.
The Volmars’ story is one of community strength, love, and resilience. As the family continues to adapt to their new dynamics, Aja’s sister-in-law, Terika Volmar, remarked, “The love they have for each other is beautiful. God bless these babies with these two parents for a specific reason.”
As the Volmars embark on this incredible journey, their story serves as a beacon of hope and joy, reminding us of the miraculous nature of life and the strength found in community support.
