The world mourns the loss of the oldest known conjoined twins, Lori and George Schappell, who both passed away at the age of 62 in their Pennsylvania hometown.
Born on September 18, 1961, in Reading, Pennsylvania, Lori and George shared a rare connection, being conjoined at the skull while having separate bodies. They were linked by 30% of their brains and essential blood vessels.
Their incredible life journey came to a close on April 7 at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia, as noted in their obituary. The specific cause of their passing has not been revealed.
George, who lived with spina bifida, used a mobility device for assistance, while Lori facilitated their movements by pushing and guiding his rolling stool. Their form of conjoined twins is exceptionally rare, affecting only about 2% to 6% of cases of congenital twins, according to NBC Today.
In a landmark moment for their lives, George transitioned in 2007, making them the first same-sex conjoined twins to identify as different genders, as recognized by Guinness World Records. During their trip to London in 2011 to celebrate their 50th birthday, George shared insights about his journey with The Sun, stating: “I knew from a very young age that I was supposed to be a boy”.
Both Lori and George completed their education at the Hiram G. Andrews Center and later worked at Reading Hospital. Despite their physical connection, they each pursued their own passions and hobbies. George followed his love for music as a country singer, captivating audiences globally, while Lori thrived as an accomplished bowler.
Remarkably, the Schappells enjoyed an independent lifestyle since turning 24. Initially, they lived in a care facility, then transitioned to a two-bedroom apartment where they each had their own space. They highlighted the significance of privacy, emphasizing that even with their physical bond, they found ways to enjoy solitude when needed
“Would we ever separate? Absolutely not”, George stated in a 1997 documentary: “My theory is, why fix what isn’t broken?”
Lori echoed this sentiment in a 2002 interview with the Los Angeles Times, saying: “I don’t believe in separation”. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Lori and George during this challenging time.
Ваrbrа Strеisаnd оn Роssibly Lеаving thе Unitеd Stаtеs
Renowned actor and singer Barbra Streisand recently expressed her dissatisfaction with the current administration and her concerns about the potential presidency of a certain candidate.
In an interview on “The Late Show” with Stephen Colbert, Streisand, who previously campaigned for Hillary Clinton, mentioned her intention to leave the United States if that candidate secures the presidency.
When asked where she might consider moving, Streisand casually mentioned England as a possible destination. This is not the first time she has discussed the idea of relocating. In 2016, she had also mentioned Canada as a potential option if the same candidate won the presidency.
It is worth noting that Barbra Streisand, along with other celebrities likе Cher, Bryan Cranston, and Amy Schumer, had previously promised to leave the country if the candidate won in 2016. However, despite the election results, they ultimately chose to stay in the United States.
While celebrity voices often inspire conversations and discussions, it is important to remember that personal decisions regarding residency are subjective and can change over time.
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