Heartbreaking image of two girls conjoined at the head.

Seven-year-old twins Chiara and Charina Nortega, who live in Roxas, Palawan, were born conjoined at the head. This condition causes them constant pain and makes daily activities difficult.New York PostThey often have to do everything simultaneously, from showering and eating to studying.

To free their two children, the twins' parents are making a fundraising effort, appealing to the generosity of the public to pay for the separation surgery, even though they know that one of the children may not survive.

"My husband and I took our daughters for MRI and CT scans. Almost all the examination results indicated that separating Chiara and Charina was very risky, because they share a common aorta," said Sonia, 37. "But we decided that no matter what, we had to go ahead with the surgery. I know very well that I might lose one of my daughters. But if one of them is cured and has a normal life, then the sacrifice of the other is completely worthwhile. I am very optimistic and believe in the miracles of science."

The Filipino mother also revealed that she had a hunch that both of her children would surely survive the surgery and soon have a life like their peers.

The surgery is estimated to cost around $119,000, but Arnel's father currently only works part-time, earning $7 a day.

"I'm doing everything I can. I work multiple shifts to earn money for my children's medical treatment," said Arnel, 47, the father of the twins. "But even if I worked shifts my whole life, I wouldn't be able to earn enough money. I'm begging friends, relatives, and even strangers for help."

While Chiara and Charina were conjoined, their other three siblings were healthy.

Because Chiara was born with a cleft palate and couldn't speak, Charina was the one who translated for her.

"Charina is a good student. She loves to learn, pays attention, and her favorite subject is math. Both sisters enjoy listening to stories," Sonia proudly shared. "They love to draw. Although life has been difficult for them, I want to raise them like normal children. My husband and I have raised them with boundless love, care, and attentive listening."

Sonia is now hoping for another miracle, because during her pregnancy, doctors predicted the two babies would die before birth; however, they have already lived through seven birthdays.

"The doctors at Medicare declared the twins were stillborn and even refused to perform a C-section. But God blessed us with two beautiful children. My maternal instincts told me they would survive the surgery, provided we could raise enough money," Sonia added.