| Full Name | Rumeysa Gelgi |
|---|---|
| Born | January 1, 1997 (Age 28) |
| Birthplace | Karabük, Türkiye |
| Nationality | Turkish |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
| Height | 215.16 cm (7 ft 0.71 in) |
| Weight | 90 kg (198 lbs) |
| Shoe size | 24.5 US |
| Medical Condition (disease) | Weaver Syndrome |
| Current Residence | Karabük Province, Türkiye |
| Profession | Advocate, Web Developer |
| Hobbies | Swimming, Self-care routines, makeup, jewelry, and technology |
| Website | rumeysagelgi.com |
| Contact | [email protected] |
Early Life and Medical Background
Rumeysa Gelgi was born with Weaver Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that causes accelerated growth and a variety of skeletal abnormalities.
Her extraordinary height, which made her the tallest living woman in the world (Guinness World Record holder since 2021), is a result of this condition.
At 1 year old, Rumeysa underwent open-heart surgery to correct congenital issues known as ASD (Atrial Septal Defect) and PDA (Patent Ductus Arteriosus). At 2 years old, she was already 4 feet 6 inches tall.
By the time she began medical treatment for accelerated growth at age 5, she stood 1.72 meters (5 ft 8 in). The treatment lasted from September 2003 to May 2006, successfully halting her excessive growth.
Following 9 months of physiotherapy, she was finally able to walk for the first time with the help of a walker.
However, due to her spinal curvature (scoliosis), she underwent major surgery at age 17, where doctors inserted two metal rods and 30 screws into her spine.
Because of this, she cannot sit for more than 2 to 3 hours at a time and usually requires custom seating (minimum 50–55 cm height) and uses a wheelchair for mobility. She can walk short distances with the aid of a walker.
Despite these challenges, Rumeysa maintains a stable health condition, regularly engaging in physiotherapy and swimming to strengthen her muscles.
Education and Career
Due to her physical limitations, Rumeysa was homeschooled throughout her academic journey. She completed elementary school in 2011 and graduated from high school in 2016.
In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she began studying Web Development, pursuing her childhood dream of working in the tech industry.
She is now a self-taught Full-Stack Developer, proficient in building both front-end and back-end web applications. Her qualifications include three professional certificates, one of which is from Harvard University.
Currently, Rumeysa is a certified web developer, advocate, and aspiring tech professional with a strong interest in accessibility and inclusive design. She proudly identifies as an advocate and Harvard Certified Web Developer, based in Türkiye.
Family Background
She has an older brother. Despite none of her family members exhibiting signs of Weaver Syndrome, they have been a constant source of encouragement and support throughout her life.
Marriage & Relationship
As of now, Rumeysa Gelgi is unmarried. However, due to her public presence and inspiring story, many people are curious about her personal life and frequently search for information such as her husband’s name, despite there being no confirmed relationship or marriage in her public profile.
Rumeysa & Jyoti Amge
Participating in the 20th annual Guinness World Records Day in November 2024, where she met Jyoti Amge, the world’s shortest living woman. Their meeting highlighted themes of diversity and mutual respect.
Rumeysa shares a publicly known friendship with Jyoti Amge, the world’s shortest living woman, symbolizing the beauty of diversity and the power of human connection.
Achievements and Records (Recognitions)
Rumeysa Gelgi holds multiple Guinness World Records, including:
Tallest living woman (since 2021)
Largest hands (female)
Longest fingers (female)
Longest back (female)
Longest ears (female)
On September 28, 2022, she made headlines by taking her first airplane flight ever. Turkish Airlines modified six rows of seats to install a stretcher, enabling her to travel from Istanbul to San Francisco.
Childhood Photos
Legacy and Inspiration
Rumeysa Gelgi is known for her positive outlook, advocacy for rare diseases, and raising awareness about the challenges faced by people with disabilities.
Rumeysa continues to inspire millions around the world with her resilience, advocacy, and achievements in the face of adversity. Her life story is not just about breaking records, it’s about breaking barriers, empowering others, and reminding the world that limitations can be redefined.
Photo source credits: rumeysagelgi > https://www.instagram.com/rumeysagelgi/
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