TWO sisters who were born on the same day three years apart have celebrated birthdays they thought may never come.

Katie and Lizzie Whybrew celebrated their 21st and 18th birthdays.

They treasure each one as they are among only six people worldwide with an un-named life-threatening disorder.

The sisters, from Third Avenue, Frinton, were both born on August 18 and have always been close.

But both girls have a rare metabolic disorder which can only be controlled by diet.

When Katie was younger, she was put on a life support machine as she had such low blood pressure. It was touch and go if she would survive.

They can now lead normal lives as long as they make sure they eat and drink properly.

Katie, who has just graduated from Essex University with a philosophy degree, said: “I was really happy when Lizzie was born, I remember bringing flowers to the hospital. I have always been quite motherly to Lizzie and we have always been together.

“It’s lovely to be born on the same day and I don’t take it for granted.”

Lizzie, who is now off to study History at the University of East Anglia, is planning to see a musical in London with her sister to celebrate their birthdays.

She said: “I like celebrating our birthday together and it is nice to share the day with her.”

The sisters’ mum, Helen, said: “They are very good friends and they get on very well.

“Birthdays are usually joined, but they do have individual plans which can make their birthdays last quite a while.

“They are more like twins.

“Having two children with the same birthday means the costs add up.”

Mrs Whybrew said the girls love being with family and friends on their birthdays.

She said: “It is quite exciting and I find it special they were born on the same day.”