In a world of viral misinformation and twisted tales, the internet once again became a breeding ground for a shocking rumor. In 2015, whispers spread like wildfire, claiming that Abby Hensel, one-half of the inspiring conjoined twins Abby and Brittany Hensel, had tragically passed away. False reports of their demise flooded the online realm, leaving fans devastated and questioning the truth. However, amidst the darkness of deception, the twins emerged as resilient proof of life, dispelling the morbid rumors through their own words and public appearances. As they gracefully navigated their unique existence, Abby and Brittany proved that they were very alive, defying the fabricated news that sought to extinguish their extraordinary spirit.
Who is Abby and Brittany
Abby and Brittany Hensel are one-of-a-kind conjoined twins who captivated audiences around the world. Born in 1990, the pair from Minnesota are dicephalic parapagus twins – meaning they are conjoined at the torso with separate heads and necks. They were featured on the TLC reality show Abby and Brittany which ran for two seasons starting in 2012. The show gave a glimpse into their unique lives as conjoined twins and highlighted their inspiring ability to coordinate and function as two separate individuals sharing one body.
Abby and Brittany quickly became fan favorites for their optimism, sense of humor, and determination to live normal lives despite the challenges of being conjoined. Though they share vital organs like the circulatory system, each twin controls her own side of the body. From an early age they learned to coordinate with each other to walk, clap, and perform other everyday functions that most take for granted. Though the chances of survival for their type of conjoining is very low, the twins beat the odds and grew into young adults determined to make the most of life.
Dispelling the Death Hoax
In 2015, a rumor began circulating online that Abby and Brittany Hensel had died, leading many fans of the conjoined twins to believe they had passed away. The rumor appears to have originated on a satirical and fake news website that published an article with the headline “Tragic News: Abby and Brittany Hensel Die at Age 22.” This fake news went viral, fooling many readers who believed the story was real.
Despite what the fake article claimed, Abby and Brittany remain alive and well today in their late 20s. The twins have given multiple interviews over the past few years, and have been spotted out in public, proving they did not die as the hoax article stated. Most recently, in 2019 the twins were interviewed for a documentary about their lives, showing without a doubt that the death rumor is completely false.
Abby and Brittany themselves have addressed the hoax, assuring concerned fans that they are alive, healthy, and doing great. They seem perplexed as to why such a strange rumor would start circulating when they have maintained an active public profile with no signs of ill health. While startling at first, the twins seem amused by the whole thing, and confirmation they are alive comes straight from the source.
Evidence They Are Alive
Despite online rumors of their death, there is clear evidence that Abby and Brittany Hensel are still alive today. The twins have given multiple interviews and made public appearances over the past several years that confirm their survival and continued good health.
In April 2019, Abby and Brittany were interviewed by BBC News, where they discussed their lives as conjoined twins. The interview showed the twins, then 27 years old, happy and thriving. They spoke about living their own independent social lives and learning to coordinate their movements together.
The twins were also featured in a documentary called “Abby and Brittany Turn 30” which aired on TLC in April 2022. The show followed their 30th birthday celebrations and gave a glimpse into their daily lives. Viewers could see first-hand that the rumors of their passing were completely false.
As recently as August 2022, Abby and Brittany made a public appearance at the Minnesota State Fair. They were photographed at the fair, proving they are still very much alive and active in their community. Fans who met them in person confirmed their presence.
The evidence is clear – from their own words in interviews to their appearances on camera, Abby and Brittany Hensel have repeatedly shown the public that they are alive and well, despite bizarre internet conspiracies suggesting otherwise. They continue to live full, meaningful lives despite the unique challenges they face as conjoined twins.
Key Milestones and Achievements
Despite the challenges of being conjoined twins, Abby and Brittany have achieved some remarkable milestones in their lives. After graduating from high school in 2008, they both attended Bethel University and earned bachelor’s degrees in education in 2012. This allowed them to fulfill their dream of becoming teachers.
Abby and Brittany defied the odds by learning to drive a car in 2012. After passing their driver’s license test, they had a custom car built with two steering wheels, accelerators, and brakes so they could easily coordinate. This gave them a new level of independence.
The twins have also traveled internationally, visiting Italy and London. Experiencing new cultures and sights was incredibly meaningful after spending their early lives sheltered.
In 2014, Abby and Brittany published their autobiography titled “Abby and Brittany: Conjoined Twins and Their Journey Through Life.” The book provided insight into what it’s like being conjoined twins and aimed to inspire others facing difficult challenges.
Despite skepticism about their capabilities, Abby and Brittany have broken barriers through determination and teamwork. Their academic and career achievements, driving skills, travels abroad, and bestselling book are incredible accomplishments as conjoined twins. They serve as role models for exceeding expectations.
Abilities and Misconceptions
Abby and Brittany Hensel have proven doctors wrong about many of the limitations they thought the twins would face. While Abby and Brittany each control one side of their shared body, they have learned to coordinate with one another to accomplish tasks and live life to the fullest.
The twins walk by coordinating their leg motions. Their cooperative teamwork allows them to run, dance, swim, ride a bike, and play sports including volleyball, basketball and softball. When driving a car, each twin controls her half of the steering wheel. Through lots of practice, they have mastered the skill of driving and even passed their driver’s license test on their 16th birthday.
Abby and Brittany are highly capable in their careers as teachers, traveling internationally and commanding respect in the classroom. They have defied myths about their health, thriving into adulthood without many serious medical issues. The twins do not share vital organs besides a circulatory system, so an illness affecting one twin does not directly impact the health of the other. While the twins have scoliosis and a third arm that was removed in infancy, they live active lives unhindered by disabilities. Their unique circumstances at birth have not prevented Abby and Brittany from leading rich, fulfilling lives surrounded by family and friends who support them. Their phenomenal ability to cooperate and problem-solve is an inspiration.