UPDATE: In an extraordinary turn of events, Aja and Emmanuel Volmar of East Orange welcomed a rare set of quadruplets on July 1, 2023, marking a significant milestone for their growing family. This incredible news comes as the couple expands from three to seven members in one life-changing day.
The odds of naturally conceiving quadruplets are a staggering one in 700,000, according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Aja Volmar defied those odds, carrying her babies for 34 weeks without complications, surprising medical professionals and bringing joy to her family.
Born in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, the newborns—Ean, Evan, Alayha, and Eamon—are now home after spending days in care. Eamon was the first to graduate from NICU after just eight days, followed by Ean at 11 days, Evan at 14 days, and Alayha, who joined her siblings after 18 days. The Volmars are now experiencing heartwarming moments as they settle into family life with their 8-year-old son, Emmanuel “EJ” Volmar Jr.
“It’s just nice to see them reunited and laying on the bed,” Aja shared. “They snuggle up under each other as if they remember being together in the womb.”
However, the journey has not been without its challenges. The couple, both working—Aja as a full-time postal worker and Emmanuel as a truck driver—has turned to their community for support. With no federal paid parental leave, they launched a GoFundMe campaign aiming for $24,000 to assist with baby supplies, medical costs, and lost income.
As of now, the Volmars have raised around 20 percent of their goal. “We’re reaching out to our friends, family, and community for help as we navigate this once-in-a-lifetime journey,” they stated on their fundraiser page.
Their incredible story began to unfold unexpectedly. Aja had a hunch she was carrying twins but was blindsided during a routine ultrasound when doctors discovered three babies, and later, a fourth—Alayha, a girl. Emmanuel was shocked when he received the news from his sister while on the road.
“I was overwhelmed with joy, anxiety, everything. It was just a lot at the time,” he recalled.
The overwhelming excitement was palpable for the family, particularly EJ, who expressed delight at the prospect of having brothers to play with. Aja and Emmanuel’s family quickly rallied around them, throwing a surprise baby shower and managing logistics for the new arrivals.
Aja’s resilience played a pivotal role in her successful pregnancy. She continued working throughout her term, which she believes helped maintain her health. “It’s four human lives in there, and the fact that I was able to feel every single last one of them move was definitely an enjoyable moment,” Aja remarked.
On delivery day, the couple faced a mix of emotions. Aja underwent a cesarean section, and despite initial fears about the large medical team present, she found comfort in Emmanuel’s support. “When you have someone who you know loves you in the room with you, it takes a weight off,” she said.
After successfully delivering all four babies, Aja shared her joy with the world on social media, amassing a following of over 35,000 as curious followers tuned in to witness her family’s journey. The couple’s resilience and love have inspired many, with Aja’s sister praising their bond, stating, “The love they have for each other is beautiful.”
The Volmars are now navigating the demands of parenting quadruplets, with EJ stepping up as a helpful big brother. Aja expressed how transformative this journey has been for her family. “It’s a big deal to go from being an only child for eight years to now having four siblings in one shot. But he loves it,” she said.
As the Volmars continue to settle into their new life, the community’s support remains vital. The family’s story is a testament to love, resilience, and the incredible power of community. The Volmars invite everyone to join them on this remarkable journey as they embrace the challenges and joys of raising quadruplets.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Volmar family’s inspiring journey and their ongoing GoFundMe campaign, which is helping to support their transition into parenthood.
