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.
‘She’s in Pain’: Liam Payne’s Girlfriend Seen for the First Time since the Tragic Death of the Singer at 31 – Photos
In the aftermath of Liam Payne’s tragic death at 31, his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, has been spotted for the first time. On October 20, she was seen in Florida, accompanied by friends during a casual outing to buy pet supplies.
The 25-year-old influencer kept it low-key in an oversized graphic tee and sweatpants, with her hair down. They were joined by Nala, the dog Payne and Cassidy rescued together, prompting fans to express concern for her emotional state online. Many noted she appeared exhausted and heartbroken, with comments reflecting empathy and shared grief.
Just days after Payne’s passing in Buenos Aires on October 16, Cassidy took to social media to express her feelings of loss and gratitude for the support she’s received, asking for space to navigate her grief.
Their vacation in Argentina had initially seemed joyful, with the couple sharing happy moments on social media. However, Cassidy left for Florida on October 14, citing travel anxiety, while Payne stayed behind.
Shortly before his death, Payne shared a video on Snapchat depicting a “lovely” day, though some followers noted that he appeared troubled. Observant fans commented on his demeanor, expressing concern for his emotional well-being.
As Cassidy grapples with her loss, the outpouring of support from fans continues to emphasize the bond she shared with Payne and the depth of her heartbreak.
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