McCaughey Septuplets Turn 18

The McCaughey septuplets will be turning 18 in one week. These kids from Carlisle, IA, became famous back in 1997 when they became the first surviving septuplets born in the USA. From all accounts, these kids have turned out great. Five of the children plan to attend Hannibal-LaGrange University next year in Missouri. One of the others plans to study at Des Moines Area Community College. And the seventh sibling will be joining the army.

The family was very popular back when they were born. Various corporations offered gifts of free diapers, and a van, and apple juice. They have received free vacations. And their college tuition to Hannibal-LaGrange is free, also. There were others gifts over the years.

Don't get me wrong. I don't blame the family for accepting these gifts. They were necessary for supporting their many children (which include one older sister). And the gifts were freely offered.

This family and the public and corporate response to the septuplets inspired an episode of "The Simpsons." Their notoriety also appears to have encouraged a spawn of reality TV show families, including the Duggars and the Gosselins.