Rumeysa Gelgi is internationally recognized as the tallest living woman on the planet, a distinction that distinguishes her and makes her a prominent figure in the rich tapestry of human diversity. Residing in Turkey, Gelgi is a distinctive individual who has not only set records but also serves as an inspiration to those in her midst. However, despite her towering achievements, Gelgi recently shared the challenges embedded in her daily life, revealing that it’s not always a story of unbridled success and happiness.
The difficulty of being a child in an adult’s body
© rumeysagelgi / Instagram
Gelgi’s upbringing deviated from the conventional due to her physical condition, leading to homeschooling during her childhood. At the tender age of 6, she already stood at a remarkable height of 5’8″, confronting societal norms that traditionally dictated men should be taller than women. This expectation placed an additional burden on tall women, a reality that deeply troubled Gelgi.
Attributed to a rare genetic condition known as Weaver syndrome, affecting only 50 individuals worldwide, Gelgi holds the title of the world’s tallest woman. Reflecting on her experience, she expresses feeling like a child trapped inside an adult’s body, encapsulating the challenges posed by her extraordinary stature and the societal expectations surrounding it.
© rumeysagelgi / Instagram
During Gelgi’s infancy, at the tender age of one, she underwent open-heart surgery to address congenital heart issues. Two years later, at the age of three, she once again found herself in the operating room, this time undergoing a procedure to correct an umbilical hernia. The hurdles persisted as Gelgi reached the age of five, necessitating five months of physiotherapy before she could take her first steps, relying on a walker for support.
Gelgi’s medical history resembles a roller coaster ride. In 2013, she underwent two surgeries to address scoliosis. Following these procedures, she has managed to navigate her life without encountering significant health setbacks or requiring extensive treatments. Opting for a proactive approach, Gelgi focuses on maintaining her strength through regular physiotherapy sessions. Nevertheless, despite her resilience, she currently depends on a wheelchair or walker for mobility. In certain situations, she also utilizes custom-made orthopedic shoes to enhance her ability to move.
