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On November 19, 1997, Kenny and Bobbi McCaughey of Carlisle, Iowa, made history, welcoming the world’s first set of surviving septuplets. Now, the famous siblings — Brandon, Kenny, Natalie, Kelsey, Joel, Alexis, and Nathan — will soon turn 25, and the world is checking in on how things have changed since that fateful day.
For one, the home they grew up in alongside older sister Mikayla, which was donated to the family after the historic birth, has since been sold to a good cause. It’s now owned and operated by a local nonprofit that houses and supports young mothers.
“As our kids are leaving the nest, it seems to be the right time to start a new chapter,” Bobbi told the Des Moines Register in 2018. “We have been blessed to receive such a wonderful gift, and nothing would please us more than the idea of our home being used as a place of refuge to others in need.”
As for the septuplets, they are all grown up and several are starting families of their own. Click below to learn more about each of them, including their jobs, where they’re living, and their best traits — all according to Mikayla.
Bobbi McCaughey said the septuplets’ older sister, Mikayla, was the best person to describe her seven siblings. Three years ago, Mikayla wrote something to each on their birthday. Their mother said the letters perfectly described the seven, and she read parts of them.
Brandon
Married to Alana with a daughter, Ellie. In light of security concerns with his military career, the family does not disclose where he’s living.
Career: Sergeant in the U.S. Army.
Best known for: His hard work and dedication.
Mikayla’s comments: “He is the most hardworking and driven person I know. He continues to make himself better and push toward new goals while being funny and giving positive encouragement to those around him.”
Kenny
Lives in Dallas Center with his wife, Synthia. They’re expecting a child in late November.
Career: Cabinet maker at Waukee Cabinet Works.
Best known for: His love of building and sense of humor.
Mikayla’s comments: “He is hilarious and kind and has a servant’s heart who is always willing to help those who need it. He is always willing to share his snacks without complaining.”
More:McCaughey septuplets at 25: ‘When we are all together, it’s just the best time’
Natalie
Lives in Hannibal, Missouri, with her husband, Shawn Geralds.
Career: Working on her master’s degree in athletic training at Culver-Stockton College.
Best known for: Her hard work.
Mikayla’s comment: “She is gracious and hospitable and always has encouraging things to say.”
Kelsey
Lives in Hannibal, Missouri, with her husband, Kevin Morrison.
Career: After earning a degree in public relations at Hannibal-LaGrange University, she worked in public relations before becoming a receptionist at a medical office.
Best known for: Her singing.
Mikayla’s comment: “She has reminded me countless times to love one another as Christ does, and she practices what she preaches. She is always willing to share her makeup and clothes.”
From 2015:McCaughey septuplets celebrate 18th birthday
Joel
Lives with his parents in Runnells.
Career: Works in IT at Emerson Electric in Marshalltown.
Best known for: His quiet nature and smarts with computers.
Mikayla’s comment: “It turns out you are pretty funny, Joel. You are so smart and talented and gifted, and I know you will accomplish great things in the future.”
Alexis
Lives with her parents in Runnells.
Career: After earning a liberal arts degree at Hannibal-LaGrange, she works at Altoona Kids World.
Best known for: Her dedication to children, especially those with special needs like her, and her kindness.
Mikayla’s comments: “She is sweet to whoever she meets no matter who they are or what they are like. That is a unique and wonderful quality.”
Nathan
Lives in Des Moines.
Career: Works in IT at Wellmark.
Best known for: His willpower in moving forward and thriving, despite his challenges with cerebral palsy.
Mikayla’s comments: “His laugh will never stop being easy to make fun of, but thanks for being a good sport. He is funny and smart and always willing to help his not-so-tech-savvy family with their tech problems.”
