3 lucky charms: Triplets born on St. Patrick's Day

In August 2007, the Lungstrum family found they were going to have an addition to the family, but they weren't counting on three.

On Nov. 30, 2007, Cindy, 37, and her husband, Mike, 44, were watching the ultrasound screen to see their baby. The doctor smiled, and asked if the couple saw what he saw.

"It was a surprise," Cindy said.

"We said, 'You gotta be kidding me,'" Mike said. "So we just started getting everything ready. … She always wanted girls, so we're saying people prayed too hard."

The Lungstrums already had three boys; Chris, 22; CJ, 19; and 3-year-old Heath. As of St. Patrick's Day, the family now has three girls as well; Julianna Joy, Ashley Hope and Bailey Faith. Julianna was born at 12:30 p.m., Bailey at 12:31, and Ashley at 12:32 p.m.

"There are lots of emotions, excitement and fear of the unknown, and the challenges ahead," Cindy said.

The Lungstrums were not planning on another child, let alone three. The family has nearly doubled in size, and the family income has been halved due to the cost of daycare. However, family, friends and fellow church members have already stepped up to help the Lungstrums. Brenda Hosack, a friend of the family, said she was more than happy to help.

"I've found that just to diaper a baby takes $3,500 until they're potty-trained," Hosack said. "I'm just doing what I can do for the Lungstrums. They're the type of people who love to help, and Cindy is the sweetest person. She loves to give to people, and it's hard for them to accept anything or ask for anything.

"It sure would be nice if the community could do something for them," Hosack continued. "I really can't do fundraisers until the community knows about them and their needs."

"She has her work cut out for her," Hosack said of her friend Cindy.

Mary Bowlen, a great aunt to the triplets, was at the hospital on Tuesday to see the new arrivals.

"She's kicking me through the blanket," Bowlen said, holding Bailey.

"Yes … I'm well aware of how they kick," Cindy said.

If you'd like to help the Lungstrums, donations may be mailed to Lungstrum Triplet Fund, 12765 Dogwood Rd., Carthage, Mo. 64836, or contact the United Missouri Bank and mention the account titled "Lungstrum Triplet Fund."

Carthage Press