Being a triplet means three of everything. Three pacifiers, three bottles, three cribs, and most importantly three times the work.
On January 2nd, 2007 I was born along with my two brothers, Tyler and Parker Sethaler.
I was premature, which is often referred to as being a preemie. Which means I was born too early, and I did not have proper time to develop. Because my brothers and I were premature, we were put into the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit otherwise known as the NICU.
Triplet birth has many risks, each one of us had a 50% chance of living up to birth. Any wrong move during birth with triplets could result in death for the baby or the mother.
Because of the amazing doctors we had that day, every single one of us survived.
My life has always been split into three. From the age of five to the age of sixteen, it has always been the same. Whether it’s sharing the same birthday or sharing the same car, it can come with challenges.
Normally your birthday is symbolized as a day of celebration of your own life. But what’s it like when you have to share the celebration of life between two other people?
“My least favorite thing about being a triplet is having to share a birthday, because we have to share everything.” Tyler Sethaler said.
But other times there are better things that come along with being a triplet.
“Being a triplet can also be very rewarding, I will always have someone to talk to.” Parker Sethaler said.
Still, to this day when people find out I’m a triplet, they seem amazed by the fact that one mother can birth three babies within the span of a few minutes.Raising three children, all at the same time is super difficult. “Every day has been an adventure,” Debbie Sethaler, our mother said.
With triplets you have to be creative, so everything we used was color-coded. Parker always had green-colored items, Tyler had blue, and I had pink. That way people knew what items went to what kid.
As we grew older, our similarities in looks began to dissipate, and oftentimes now people can not tell that me and my brothers are related. But even with our differences, our bond is unbreakable. And our moments and experiences in life are unforgettable.
Having siblings who have gone through everything with you since birth is like having a built-in best friend that will do anything to protect you.
And even though we fight and argue, and sometimes even get into trouble, one thing I will always have is my built-in best friends.
Mayra Luaces | Dec 12, 2023 at 11:31 am
Your birth brought triple happiness to the entire family. We are so proud of you all and your parents. Great words Amber.
Jim McCain | Dec 12, 2023 at 11:11 am
So cute! Moved me to tears. 10/10, would def recommend! Underrated writer. I’m going to reread this article for many years to come.
ARLENE JONES | Dec 12, 2023 at 10:24 am
Great writing, I enjoyed seeing the prospective you have of being a triplet. All three of you are so amazing and it’s hard believe you’re juniors now! I’m proud of each of you and the great job your parents have done. It’s been such a joy being a part of your journey!
Aunt Arlene
Diann Sethaler | Dec 12, 2023 at 10:08 am
I love your article, Amber… Very well written. One of the most amazing experience in my life was having my first grandchildren times 3! I feel so lucky to always have had 3 times the love and fun! I love being your Nana, Amber, Tyler and Parker!
Karen Bolhafner | Dec 12, 2023 at 8:18 am
As your Aunt Karen, I have to say, you said it perfectly! Watching the three of you grow up together, but each a very unique individual has been an amazing adventure. This is a great article.
Madelyn Hamby | Dec 12, 2023 at 7:28 am
That’s such a Cute story!!