18-Year-Old Rescued as Frozen Embryo During Katrina Reflects on Life — and His 21-Year-Old ‘Twin’ (Exclusive)

Noah Markham has a story like no other. Although he is now an 18-year-old Army private and mechanic trainee, his life began in extraordinary circumstances—as a frozen embryo rescued from the catastrophic flooding during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. His unique beginnings and rise to serve alongside his “twin” brother Witt, who is three years older and from the same batch of embryos, showcase an inspiring journey of survival and resilience.

The Rescue of Frozen Embryos Amid Katrina’s Devastation

In 2005, the violent storm surge from Hurricane Katrina caused widespread flooding in New Orleans, threatening a fertility clinic where over 1,200 frozen embryos, including those of the Markham family, were stored in liquid nitrogen. With power outages and rising temperatures compromising storage conditions, a specialized rescue team, approved by then-Governor Kathleen Blanco, was dispatched to save the embryos.

Using flat-bottom boats and the support of different police agencies, rescuers retrieved the embryos from the floodwaters on September 11, 2005, preserving the potential for new life amid destruction. Noah’s parents, Glen and Rebekah Markham, later used one of these embryos to conceive him, two years after the traumatic event.

Noah’s Unique Start and Family Connection

Born on January 16, 2007, Noah’s life started two years after the embryos’ rescue, a fact that he sometimes muses over, stating, “I was there, but I wasn’t there at the same time.” His older brother Witt entered the world a few years earlier, yet the brothers are fraternal twins in a biological sense as they came from the same embryo cohort. Their parents admire the almost miraculous journey that brought them both into existence.

Growing Up with an Unbelievable Story

From a young age, Noah was aware that his beginnings were anything but ordinary. His story captured attention far beyond his hometown of Covington, Louisiana, where teachers and classmates watched videos of his journey as a frozen embryo brought back to life. “Nobody believes you were frozen,” he shares, but embraces his identity and the lucky break that the rescue represented.

Following a Legacy of Service

Inspired by his father and grandfathers, who all served in the military, Noah enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduating high school in 2025. He started basic training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and currently attends advanced mechanic school at Fort Lee outside Richmond, Virginia. His goal is to serve his country while honoring the legacy and sacrifices of family members before him.

A Future Ahead Despite a Tumultuous Past

As Noah prepares to be stationed alongside Witt at Fort Polk in Louisiana, his story reminds everyone of hope and perseverance. His mother reflects on the bittersweet legacy of Katrina, acknowledging both terrible loss—including family heirlooms and neighborhoods still recovering—and miraculous survival. Noah’s existence stands as a symbol of resilience in the face of disaster.