Rumeysa Gelgi (Turkey) has been part of the Guinness World Records family since she was a teenager.
In 2014 she became the tallest teenager living and in 2021 she was recognized as the world’s tallest woman living.
Rumeysa stands at a dizzying height of 215.16 cm (7ft 0.7in). 😵
Rumeysa's record-breaking features don't end there. She has now earned three more Guinness World Records titles:
- Longest finger on a living person (female): 11.2 cm (4.40 in)
- Largest hands on a living person (female): her right hand measures 24.93 cm (9.81 in) and left hand measures 24.26 cm (9.55 in)
- Longest back on a living person (female): 59.90 cm (23.58 in)
Rumeysa’s record-breaking height is caused by a condition called Weaver syndrome. This causes Rumeysa’s bones and body parts to grow at a much faster rate than most people. 🦴️
Her super-sized body makes it difficult for Rumeysa to do certain things that the rest of us may take for granted.
Rumeysa finds it hard to bend her joints, such as her elbows, knees and ankles. Because of this, Rumeysa uses a wheelchair to move around. She can walk for short time periods with the help of a walker.
"Being a record holder is a very amazing thing. I know that only the special people can make it and I know I’m one of them now." - Rumeysa Gelgi
Even though she faces difficulties in her day-to-day life, Rumeysa is still able to do the things she loves and live her best life. 😊
When she’s not travelling or spreading her message of body positivity, Rumeysa loves swimming and spending time with her family. 🏊♀️
Interestingly, the rest of Rumeysa’s family are average heights.
Rumeysa has received some negative comments about her body in the past. 😞
However, it made her realize that people only say mean things because they don’t understand her condition.
Ever since she achieved her first record, Rumeysa has used her rare medical condition to educate other people. She talks about her personal experiences and teaches people the importance of body positivity and diversity. 🤗
Every world record that Rumeysa breaks is another reminder for her that she is special. ⭐️
"I was born with extreme physical uniqueness and wanted to have as much of them recognized and celebrated as possible, hoping to inspire and encourage others with visible differences to do the same thing and be themselves." Rumeysa wrote on Instagram.
"It motivated me to pursue my goals and have a more confident outlook in life."
Day after day, Rumeysa uses her celebrity status to spread awareness and positivity.
"I like being different from everyone else," she says.
There are also many advantages to being one of the tallest people in the world. 😃
"It also provides me with easy access to high places, and looking down at people from above isn’t a bad thing either!” Rumeysa said.
"Every disadvantage can be turned into an advantage for yourself so accept yourself for who you are, be aware of your potential and do your best."
