I’m the tallest woman in the world – I was 23 inches tall at birth, but a simple trick told to me by family made life easier

The tallest woman in the world, at two meters tall, has revealed her family’s secret of celebrating their differences and ignoring bullies.

Already 23 inches tall at birth, Rumeysa Gelgi always knew she was different, she told The US Sun in an exclusive interview.

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The 25-year-old was born with the rare Weaver Syndrome, a genetic condition that causes excessive bone growth and has not only made her the world’s tallest woman but has also left her with some physical challenges, including scoliosis.

“My syndrome is present from birth, so my family and doctors knew that from day one – I was a very large baby, measuring 59 centimeters‘ said the native Turk.

When she was six years old, Rumeysa was already 1.77 meters tall.

She told The US Sun that her physical challenges when she was younger seemed like “a negative thing” until her family changed their perspective.

“I was so lucky to have had tremendous support from my family and when I was very young my parents taught me an approach that really helps me to see myself as a unique person.

Rumeysa’s family taught her not to see her condition as something to recover from, but as who she is.

“That’s why I’ve never called myself a sick person,” she shared. “That really helped a lot.”

Rumeysa also holds the Guinness World Record for longest fingers, largest hands and longest back by a living woman.

Due to her physical problems, she was unable to walk or sit for more than 20 minutes until she was five, when she had life-changing surgery at age 17.

“Now I can sit for two hours at a time, but it’s no longer,” she explained.

“Every two or three hours I have to lie down and support my back because there is so much pressure on my back. Both because of the Weaver syndrome and because of the scoliosis.”

However, before the surgery, Rumeysa was able to complete her training from the comfort of her own bedroom and now works as a web developer.

She’s also learned to enjoy the attention her height commands, she told The US Sun.

“I’m really so happy and proud to have this title because I really love sharing my story with the world to hopefully inspire others.

“People often ask me to take photos together and I’m really happy with that stuff.

I’m really so thankful that people support me and show their appreciation, which makes me really happy and motivated.”

Rumeysa also had some advice for those struggling with their differences.

“You should be aware of your potential and I mean you are no different. They’re just unique,” she said.

“Never let other people make you doubt it.”

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