HANKS FOR THE TWINS’ SPECIAL MESSAGE TOM
Hollywood actor records Toy Story clip for brothers
Tom Hanks in video for the Benhaffaf boys Tom sent letter signature at the end. In it the 62-year-old joked he “looks a bit odd” these days and asked the youngsters not to “be scared” by his appearance in the video.
Miceal said he and his wife are inspired by the resilience of the nineyear-olds and the dedication of their parents, Angie and Azzedine, who have worked hard to give them every opportunity in life.
The Benhaffaf boys rose to national prominence at birth as their parents fought for their survival via surgery.
However, Miceal stresses in many ways the operation was just the start of a long journey with the duo having to travel to London on a regular basis for procedures.
He said: “It was in all the headlines [when they were born]. It was only natural it slipped from our public awareness.
“What people don’t realise is the boys’ dad, who was a talented chef, had to leave his job to care for the family.
“He and Angie are fulltime carers and they also have two other children.
“They go to London for surgeries. Some things are covered but the out-ofpocket expenses aren’t.
“On any given trip it costs them €2,000 to €3,000 they don’t get reimbursed. This family face adversity that people don’t even realise.”
Miceal added the boys play basketball, love to climb and are spirited, warm kids who light up a room.
He said: “I am proud to know the boys and to call them my friends. They are an extraordinary family. I think we should do something more for these boys.”
Donations can be made to the ongoing care of the boys via www. gofundme.com/the-benhaffaf-boys.
news@irishmirror.ie Hassan and Hussein Benhaffaf Woody’s shoe