The world’s oldest living conjoined twins have celebrated their 50th birthday, defying doctors’ predictions.
Lori and George Schappell, conjoined at the head, are about to commemorate their milestone birthday.
This significant occasion is being marked with a trip to London.
Astonishingly, the Siamese twins manage to lead distinct and independent lives; Lori has engaged in relationships while George — who was previously named Dori — has chosen to live as a man.
Lori also excels as a ten-pin bowler, while George showcases his talent as a country and western singer.
“I said, when we were born, that the doctors believed we wouldn’t live past 30, and yet here we are,” Lori states.
“In the past 50 years, we’ve learned a tremendous amount and will keep embracing life wholeheartedly.”
Lori, standing at 5ft 1in and born healthy, contrasts greatly with 4ft 4in George, who experiences severe mobility issues due to spina bifida.
Since George is unable to walk, he utilizes a wheelchair-type stool that Lori pushes, enabling them to move as one.
George remarks, “Many people find it hard to believe, but we lead very ordinary lives.”
“We travel, maintain our flat, and Lori has even had a boyfriend. Nothing prevents us from pursuing what we desire.”
While both twins are currently single, Lori has engaged in dating. She shares, “I lost my virginity at 23 with my second boyfriend.”
“During my dates, George would entertain himself with books, and since we don’t face each other, he could overlook any kissing. I don’t understand why being a conjoined twin should inhibit my love life or my feelings of femininity.”
The twins hail from Pennsylvania, USA, and were born sharing 30 percent of their frontal lobe brain tissue and crucial blood vessels, making separation impossible.
