Conjoined twins Lori and George Schappell, who led separate lives and defied medical expectations, passed away in Pennsylvania at the age of 62. The Guinness World Records recognized them as the oldest living conjoined twins. They died on April 7 at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. The exact cause of death was not specified.
Despite being joined at the skull with distinct brains, Lori and George pursued individual interests and careers. George, who was 4 inches shorter and had spina bifida, was wheeled around by Lori on an adaptive wheeled stool. Both twins were determined to live as independently as possible.
They both graduated from high school and took college classes. Lori worked in a hospital laundry for six years while George pursued a country music career. They maintained their own residence since the age of 24 and traveled extensively, making appearances in documentaries, talk shows, and even on the FX medical drama “Nip/Tuck.”
Lori was engaged to be married at one point, but her fiance passed away in a car accident. During dates, George would bring books to read. The twins had different bathing schedules and showered one at a time, emphasizing the importance of compromise and respect in their unique situation.
Conjoined twins are rare, with only about one in every 50,000 to 60,000 births resulting in this condition. Separation was considered risky for the Schappell twins, and they both believed that they were meant to live as they were. They did not see the need for surgical intervention.
The Schappell twins’ survivors include their father and six siblings. Private services are planned to honor their lives. The title of the oldest living conjoined twins now remains open for someone else to claim.
