TLC has made a pretty good business model out of identifying and signing larger-than-life families to be a part of their programming. When I use the word “big,” I am not speaking of the drama that you normally get on reality television, I am speaking solely on volume – as in numbers. The network recently aired its final episode of “Outdaughtered,” and it was keenly aware of the fact the viewers of that show would be looking for something to replace it. Enter “Hodges Half-Dozen,” TLC’s latest larger than life family with a unique twist. As of Tuesday, November 7, TLC has placed its largest large-sized family on center stage – the Hodges.
Since most of you have probably not heard of the Hodges, here are few facts to help you become more familiar with the show the Hodges themselves.
1. Five of the Six Children Are the Same Age
So, you have probably guessed that there are quintuplets involved in this family makeup. Yep, Liz and Daniel, a couple from Texas recently gave birth to a set of quintuplets, and the show chronicles their journey to delivers this huge bundle of joy. Six the show is titled Hodges Half-Dozen, it obvious that there is another little one somewhere. They have a 2-year-old name Rowan, who definitely adds personality to the show.
2. The Multiple Births Are a Result of Fertility Treatments
As with most pregnancies of three or more children, the Hodges underwent fertility treatments to fulfill their desire to have a big family. I am certain when this started they weren’t expecting to have them all at once, but when they found it difficult to get pregnant they decided to up the anty, and anyone who is familiar with fertility treatments, one of the side effects is the increased chance of multiple births. It seems that the Hodges have adjusted well to the new additions to their family.
3. The Babies are Preemies
If getting the news that you are pregnant with five babies is not shocking enough, the babies were born three months premature. It is not uncommon for women who pregnant with more than one fetus to deliver early, which is something that medical professionals work hard to avoid whenever possible. This premature delivery was considered life-threatening for the mother and the babies, according to Liz’s doctors.
4. A Family That Is Texas Strong
Despite all the challenges associated with the premature births, including one child that was born barely breathing, requiring oxygen for a short time, the babies pulled through and the family is none the worse for wear. Those of us from Texas would call that Texas strong. It takes a couple cut from a certain fabric to be able to manage the challenges that the Hodges have faced, and they were obviously up to the task.
5. It Took Four Months to Get All Five Babies Home
When there are multiple births, especially when the births are premature, there is a long road to getting the infants to a size and condition in which they are healthy enough to go home. It took four months before the Hodges were able to bring their last child home from the NICU. Liz even posted about the accomplishment on the family’s Facebook account. She spoke of the journey and everyone who played an integral role in reaching that milestone. It seems like this show will definitely be an exciting one.
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