A Rare Double Celebration at a Northern Ireland Hospital as Two Families Welcome Triplets Within Hours
Staff and families at the Ulster Hospital in Dundonald, County Down, experienced an extraordinary day last week when two sets of triplets were born within hours of each other, bringing joy and excitement to the maternity unit.
The first set of triplets arrived on Tuesday as Brendan and Kirsty McMenamin, from Downpatrick, welcomed three healthy babies — a daughter, Zoey, and two sons, Cameron and Brody. Their birthweights ranged between 4lb 7oz and 5lb, and all three were delivered safely.
Less than 24 hours later, Claire and Johnny Stewart, from Donaghadee, became parents to three baby girls — Annie, Libby, and Evie — with birthweights between 4lb 4oz and 5lb 1oz.

Reflecting on the news that they would be having triplets, Johnny remembered the scan where the surprise unfolded.
“The consultant asked if we wanted to hear something interesting,” he said. “At first, he said it was twins. Before we could process that, he looked again and said, ‘Actually, there are three.’ From that moment, we just focused on taking it one step at a time.”
Claire admitted she was initially stunned by the announcement — and amused by her husband’s calm reaction.
“I was completely speechless,” she said. “The first thing I said was, ‘Thank goodness my mum’s retired.’ Johnny was asking practical questions, like whether the girls were identical. I was just lying there in shock, but also incredibly happy.”
Reality soon set in. “You suddenly think, ‘I only have two hands — how do you manage three babies?’” Claire said.
The Stewart girls arrived earlier than planned.
“We were due on Friday, but they decided Wednesday morning was the day,” Claire explained. “Everything happened very quickly, and we worried we might have to be transferred elsewhere.”
Fortunately, the Ulster Hospital team handled the situation expertly.
“The staff responded immediately,” Claire said. “They were so efficient and supportive — we’re beyond grateful.”
Johnny described the birth as both calm and busy. “There were more than 20 people in the theatre, and even some students watching through the windows. But the staff kept us informed the whole time and made us feel involved,” he said.
Their care continued after delivery, particularly when the babies required neonatal support.
“The team explained every step and gradually involved us more as the girls improved,” Johnny said. “Their guidance and kindness meant the world to us and helped build our confidence.”
For Claire, the most emotional moment came when she first heard her daughters cry.

“I was completely overwhelmed,” she said. “Hearing them cry meant they were okay. We held them briefly before they were taken for checks, but that moment will stay with me forever.”
Two of the babies were admitted to the neonatal unit, giving the couple reassurance that they were in expert hands. Johnny added, “Even before we could hold them properly, we were allowed to touch them, change nappies, and slowly help with feeding. The staff guided us through everything.”
Multiples run in Claire’s family — her younger brother and sister are twins — which made the news a little less surprising.
“My mum had four children under four years old,” Claire joked. “She’s already offered to move into our spare room to help.”
The reality of becoming a family of five truly hit when cards arrived with all three girls’ names together.
“Seeing their names side by side was incredibly emotional,” Johnny said. “That’s when it really felt real.”
Now, as they adjust to life with three newborns, the couple are excited about bringing their daughters home.
“I’m nervous and excited at the same time,” Claire said. “I can’t wait to have the girls at home, but it’s also reassuring having the nurses nearby. They’ve been amazing.”
With a smile, she added, “I’m definitely looking forward to sleeping in my own bed — and maybe even enjoying a hot cup of tea, though I’ve been warned not to expect too much.