Conjoined Twin Who Came Out As Transgender Confessed He ‘Kept Desire Hidden’ From Sister For Decades

For years, George Schappell carried a deeply personal secret — one he kept even from his conjoined twin sister, Lori.

The twins, born in Pennsylvania and joined at the head, shared part of their brain and blood vessels. Despite overwhelming odds, they built full, independent lives together, remaining united both physically and emotionally.

At 62, they passed away peacefully this year, holding the record as the world’s oldest living conjoined twins. Their bond and resilience inspired people around the world.

Yet behind their shared strength, George held onto a truth he struggled to express. “I always knew I should have been a boy,” he once confessed. “I kept it hidden — even from Lori — for many years.”

In 2007, George came out as transgender, and Lori’s loving response touched countless hearts. “It was a shock,” she admitted, “but I’m so proud of him. We’ve faced everything side by side — nothing can change that.”

Throughout their lives, the twins rejected the idea of surgical separation. “Why fix what isn’t broken?” George once said, capturing the deep harmony they shared despite their differences.

Their extraordinary story endures as a testament to unconditional love, courage, and acceptance — showing that true connection doesn’t always require understanding, only compassion.