Tributes paid to ‘inspiring’ oldest conjoined twins who passed away in April – one was transgender
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The world has recently mourned the loss of Lori and George Schappell, the world’s oldest conjoined twins who passed away in April. The twins, who were born in Pennsylvania in 1961, shared 30% of their brain and were initially told they wouldn’t live past 30. However, they defied the odds and lived to be 62 years old before their passing.
George Schappell, who had spina bifida and used a wheelchair, came out as transgender in 2007. He revealed that he had known from a young age that he should have been a boy, hiding his true identity even from his sister, Lori. This revelation made Lori and George the first conjoined same-sex twins to identify as different genders.
Despite their unique circumstances, Lori and George led successful lives. George pursued a career as a country singer, while Lori excelled as a trophy-winning ten-pin bowler. The twins supported each other in their endeavors, with Lori arranging her schedule around George’s music gigs.
In a 1997 documentary, George was asked if they wished they had been separated. He responded, “Would we be separated? Absolutely not. My theory is – why fix what is not broken?” This sentiment encapsulated the close bond that the twins shared throughout their lives.
Following their passing, many people paid tribute to Lori and George, including talk show host Sally Jessy Raphael, who described them as an inspiration. The Guinness Book of World Records also acknowledged the twins’ unique status as the world’s oldest conjoined twins.
Lori and George are survived by their father and six siblings, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and strength. Their story serves as a reminder of the power of love and support in overcoming challenges and embracing one’s true identity.
As the world mourns the loss of Lori and George Schappell, their memory lives on through the impact they made during their remarkable lives. May they rest in peace knowing that they have inspired many with their courage and determination.
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