Lori and George: The Extraordinary Conjoined Twins Who Transcended Expectations”.

In 2023, the world mourned the loss of Lori L. Schappell and George A. Schappell, the world’s oldest conjoined twins. They passed away at the age of 62, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.

Lori and George were born in West Reading, Pennsylvania, on September 18, 1961, to Franklin G. Schappell and Ruth G. Schappell. Despite being craniopagus twins – meaning they were joined at the head – Lori and George led independent lives. They worked together at a hospital in Reading, Pennsylvania, before striking out on their own to pursue different passions.

George pursued a career as a country singer while Lori became an award-winning bowler and continued working at the hospital during George’s performances. Despite having Spina Bifida and needing a wheelchair, George was able to move around with Lori’s assistance. The siblings lived together in a two-bedroom apartment in Pennsylvania, each with their own rooms and separate routines including sleeping arrangements and showering schedules.

In 2007, George made history by announcing that he was transgender male – making him and Lori the first same-sex conjoined twins to identify as different genders. Despite this revelation, they always expressed that they did not want to be separated. “My theory is: why fix what is not broken?” said George once.

Despite their differences in gender identity, Lori and George remained close until their passing in April 2023. They are survived by their father, Franklin; six siblings; and nieces and nephews who will remember them as extraordinary individuals who defied expectations despite facing numerous challenges throughout their lives