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.
The Couple Wanted To Adopt a Cat And They Chose The Saddest And Most Unhappy Of All The Cats: The Happy Animal Changed Beyond Recognition In a Matter Of Hours!
Often referred to as the saddest cat on the internet, meet BenBen. BenBen, poor guy, was going to have a very bad future in a shelter, almost certainly ending in death.
His story is all the more tragic because he had a disfigured ear, multiple severe cuts, and a fractured back.
BenBen appears to have had an encounter with a much bigger animal.
BenBen appeared to sense his fate, according to the shelter officials. He didn’t seem to be trying to continue; he wasn’t moving, eating, or drinking.
After learning about BenBen, a compassionate vet clinic staff member made the decision to offer him a fresh start.
It was truly an amazing metamorphosis. Within an hour of moving into his new house, BenBen’s entire personality transformed!
“As if to say thank you, he began purring, grinning, and climbing up for cuddles. I firmly think he understood he had at last found safety and his ultimate home.
Ben bucked the odds and started walking again, despite the doctors’ doubts. Before long, he was sprinting and jumping instead of just walking!
BenBen is no longer the saddest cat in the house, even though he still needs painkillers. He’s really become a content cat!
We are grateful to the amazing individuals that saved BenBen!
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