Rumeysa Gelgi: World's tallest woman
Rumeysa Gelgi (Turkey) has been part of the Guinness World Records family since she was a teenager.
She was the tallest teenager living in 2014 and after being re-measured in 2021, Rumeysa was recognized as the world’s tallest woman living, at a height of 215.16 cm (7 ft 0.7 in).
Growing up against all odds
Rumeysa’s huge height is caused by Weaver Syndrome, an extremely rare genetic condition which causes her bones and body parts to grow at a much faster rate than most people. 🦴️
Rumeysa was also born with Scoliosis, a condition which causes the spine to curve sideways.
In the first few years of her life, Rumeysa grew taller than the average toddler. However, she suffered many health problems – her bones were large, but they weren’t very strong.
Because of this, she usually moves around with the aid of a wheelchair or a walker. 👩🦽
No other member of her family has Weaver Syndrome, and so Rumeysa quickly outgrew them all.
They are extremely proud of Rumeysa's accomplishments and always encourage her to reach her goals. 😊
"After 9 months of physiotherapy at 5 years old, I was able to walk for the first time with a walker."
- Rumeysa Gelgi
Achieving her dreams
When Rumeysa was 17, she was recognized as being the world’s tallest teenager (female), standing at a height of 213.6 cm (7ft 0.09 in).
“It’s one of my biggest dreams to be awarded with this record,” she said at the time.
However, being the world’s tallest teen also had its downsides, for example, it wasn’t possible for Rumeysa to attend school in person. She completed her education by homeschooling and graduated high school in 2016.
Five years later, in 2021, Rumeysa was re-measured and officially awarded the record title of tallest woman living.
Aside from achieving a Guinness World Records title, one of Rumeysa’s other childhood dreams was to have a job involving technology.
She decided to make that dream become a reality and began studying web development in 2020. After lots of hard work, she passed all her tests! 🥳️
"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
Rumeysa also has three record-breaking body parts:
- Longest finger on a living person (female): 11.2 cm (4.40 in) 👆
- Largest hands on a living person (female): her right hand is 24.93 cm (9.81 in) and her left is 24.26 cm (9.55 in) 👐
- Longest back on a living person (female): 59.90 cm (23.58 in) 🚶♀️
Spreading positivity
A large part of Rumeysa’s life is dedicated to raising awareness about her rare medical condition and educating others.
She talks publicly about her personal experiences and teaches people about the importance of body positivity and diversity. 😊
“Living with some severe diagnoses for my lifetime inspired me to raise awareness, help to get treatment options further and empower other individuals who are in similar situations,” Rumeysa explained.
Being the world’s tallest woman also has its perks: "It provides me with easy access to high places, and looking down at people from above isn’t a bad thing either!”
"I like being different from everyone else." 😃
In her free time, Rumeysa loves reading, swimming, spending time with her family and exploring new places. 🏊♀️📚
"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."
- Rumeysa Gelgi
