Palisades Twins with Cystic Fibrosis Demonstrate 'The Power of Two'

Anabel "Ana" Stenzel and Isabel "Isa" Stenzel Byrnes are adult twin sisters who grew up in Pacific Palisades, and have lived a lifetime with cystic fibrosis, or CF. Cystic fibrosis is an inherited and chronic production of thick mucus that fills the lungs and leads to life-threatening circumstances. It can also affect the pancreas.

The Power of Two, produced and directed by Marc Smolowitz, is a documentary that tells their story of bravery and determination to fight the disease. The sisters each underwent double lung transplant surgery.

One might argue that bravery came from the incredible support the twins said they received from their family. The twins' father, Reiner Stenzel, a UCLA physics professor, and their mother, Hatsuko, who was born in Japan, said they were always there during numerous doctors visits. The Stenzels also told Patch they stood behind their daughters as they became activists for organ donation in both Japan and the U.S.

The sisters have found love and survival despite CF. Both Ana and Isa's husbands were featured in the documentary. In fact, Ana's wedding to husband Trent Wallace is in the film. Isa's husband, Andrew Byrnes, also served as one of the film's producers.

The Power of Two will have multiple screenings this week in LA during the 15th annual DocuWeeks 2011 showcase, organized through the International Documentary Association.

The Los Angeles premiere was Friday at the Laemmle Sunset 5. 

• For additional showtimes in LA, click here.