Conjoined Twins who Share Internal Organs (They are NOT a Sideshow!) - Summary

Summary

Here is a concise summary of the provided transcript:

**Subject:** An interview with conjoined twins, Carmen and Lupita (also referred to as "Karmy" by their mom), about their lives, experiences, and perspectives.

**Key Points:**

1. **Self-Identification:** They prefer to be called "conjoined twins" or "hipsters" (a term they use among themselves).
2. **Social Interactions:**
* They face rude comments, stares, and intrusive questions.
* They appreciate respect and considerate questioning.
* They don't feel obligated to answer every question, especially if it's inappropriate.
3. **Personalities:**
* Lupita: caring, compassionate, and understanding.
* Carmen: loud, opinionated, and straightforward.
4. **Challenges & Coping Mechanisms:**
* They deal with depression, anxiety, and mental health issues.
* Humor is a coping mechanism for them.
5. **Messages to the Public:**
* Educate children about acceptance and differences.
* Treat them with respect and ask questions considerately.
6. **Personal Aspirations & Wishes:**
* Carmen: independence and taking care of their family.
* Lupita: a more comfortable life (jokingly, less heat).

**Tone:** The conversation is open, honest, and lighthearted, with the twins showcasing their unique bond and perspectives on life.

Facts

Here are the key facts extracted from the text, each numbered and in short sentences, excluding opinions:

1. **Condition**: The individuals are conjoined twins, joined at the head.
2. **Preferred Term**: They prefer to be called "conjoined twins" but also refer to themselves as "hipsters".
3. **Family Description**:
* **Lupita's View**: Her family is "hectic but great".
* **Carmen's View**: Her family is "very family-oriented".
* **Mother's View**: Her children are "wonderful" and "kind of my life".
4. **Mental Health**:
* **Diagnoses**: Both individuals have depression and untreated anxiety.
* **Coping Mechanism**: They use humor to diffuse situations.
5. **Social Interactions**:
* **Friendship**: They are open to friendship, valuing mutual respect.
* **Question Etiquette**: They appreciate being asked questions politely and on a "need to know" basis.
6. **Public Behavior**:
* **Picture Taking**: Prefer to be asked before being photographed.
* **Desired Parent-Child Interaction**: Educate children about differences, rather than shielding them.
7. **Personal Capabilities**:
* **Driving**: Carmen can drive, which often surprises people. Lupita cannot drive.
8. **Wishes**:
* **Lupita's Wish**: Less heat (in reference to current weather).
* **Carmen's Wish**: To be financially independent and support her family without them needing to work.