World's Oldest Conjoined Twins George And Lori Have Died Aged 62

Lori and George Schappell, born on September 18, 1961, in Pennsylvania, USA, were the oldest conjoined twins in the world at the time of their passing.

The twins were joined at the head, facing opposite directions, a condition where their skulls were connected, sharing a blood supply and about 30 percent of their brain.

This type of conjoinment is the rarest, accounting for only two to six percent of all conjoined twin cases.

They expressed a desire to remain joined, having adapted to their unique condition.

Lori and George Schappell. Susan Watts/NY Daily News Archive via Getty Images

In a 1997 documentary, George firmly stated, "Would we be separated? Absolutely not. My theory is: why fix what is not broken?"

Despite their physical connection, Lori and George led remarkably independent lives.

They pursued separate hobbies in their own space. While one engaged in an activity, the other would often 'zone out.'

Lori shared, "Just because we cannot get up and walk away from each other, doesn't mean we cannot have solitude from other people or ourselves."

Their approach to independence extended into their romantic lives as well.

In a 2011 interview with The Sun, Lori revealed, "When I went on dates, George would bring along books to read and, as we don't face each other, he could ignore any kissing."

George described how he managed during Lori's intimate moments: "I act like I'm not even there."

Lori and George Schappell have died aged 62. Jemal Countess/WireImage for PMK / HBH

Lori once became engaged but sadly, her fiancé died in a car accident.

Reflecting on this painful period, Lori said, "George looked after me. If it wasn't for him, I don't know if I could have lived through the heartbreak."

Living to 62 years old, Lori and George defied early medical predictions that doubted their survival past their 30th birthdays.

In 2007, George transitioned and came out as a trans man. He explained, "I have known from a very young age that I should have been a boy."

"I loved playing with trains and hated girly outfits. I kept my desire to change sex hidden – even from Lori – for many years."

He added, "It was so tough, but I was getting older and I simply didn't want to live a lie. I knew I had to live my life the way I wanted."

Lori supported her brother through his transition, expressing, "Obviously it was a shock when Dori changed to George, but I am so proud of him."