"Being tall makes you stand out in most groups. As with any kind of difference you have to learn to own it."

Maddie Crum
Books and Culture Writer, The Huffington Post

When Jessica Goldschmidt was five years old, she was put in a swimming group at day camp with a bunch of kids twice her age. She was taller than the average child, so her strength was assumed to be on par with the older campers. But, the current was stronger than her athletic abilities, and she struggled to stay afloat, nearly drowning.

Though her height hasn’t had quite as dire an impact on her personality since then, its influenced her work as a theatre artist. Along with three other tall women, she co-created, choreographs for and performs in "Tall Women in Clogs", a funny, feminist take on how height can shape a woman’s identity in America.

Goldschmidt met Sophie Shackleton and Katherine Cooper at Brown University while performing for a student production of "The Rocky Horror Show". After graduating, the three women moved to New York City, where they teamed up with Madeline Wise to create "Tall Women in Clogs", a variety show involving dance, physical theater and circus, which sold out on its first run. The troupe recently campaigned on Kickstarter to bring their work to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in Scotland.

"Tall Women in Clogs is an ethos, an attitude", they wrote on their Kickstarter page. “It’s a way of looking at ourselves, the world, and our bodies in the world as four 20-something women who take up more space than average.”

Below, Goldschmidt, Shackleton, Cooper and Wise discuss their play, their height, the Rockettes, and the woes of middle school dances.

Do you think being tall is an integral part of your identity?

Madeline Wise: In general my height is something that I feel doesn't define me. I'd always prefer that I am defined by nonphysical traits, because those are the traits I can control and cultivate.

Sophie Shackleton: It affects my feelings of femininity deeply. But it also makes me feel very capable, and older than my age much of the time, and is a great asset for leadership and confidence in many parts of life, too.

Jessica Goldschmidt: On a family vacation when I was five, I was so tall they placed me in a day camp group with the eight to 10-year-olds. I almost drowned because the undertow was too strong. So for me, early on, being tall became almost literally a matter of life and death.

Katherine Cooper: Absolutely.

You discuss a few of the woes of tall women on your Kickstarter -- that others expect you to be stronger than you are, for instance. Which of these misconceptions do you struggle with the most?

MW: I think the bit about being tougher than you are, probably. I've had a lot of people project stoicism onto me simply because I'm physically above the sturm und drang.

SS: I struggled with weight as a kid, so that is strongly related to my feelings about “bigness." I’m no longer overweight, but because of my height, I’m realizing that I will always feel like I still am “too large.” As I get older, I’m much more interested in embracing femininity and vulnerability. I’m full of those things too, perhaps even more because of my size, and I’m less scared of showing that.

JG: For me, it's this ideal that a tall woman is an outlier, that she must be either a) ungainly/"unfeminine" or b) supermodel/Rockette material -- ogres or sex objects, and not much in between

KC: I definitely struggle to share my vulnerability with people. I'd say that's probably true of a lot of people. But I think being tall exacerbates that feeling because people do expect you to be stronger and more competent a lot of the time.

Read the full article

‘Tall Girl 2’ Coming to Netflix, Filming Begins in April 2021

by Kasey Moore @kasey__moore on March 3, 2021, 6:31 pm EST

The Netflix teen rom-com Netflix Tall Girl is coming back for a sequel according to two sources that suggest filming will be getting underway next month and wrap in the summer. Here’s what we know.

Just to quickly recap, the first Tall Girl movie was a smash hit for Netflix given its low budget and eventually went onto rack up 41 million views on the platform in the first four weeks available.

The film starred Ava Michelle, Griffin Gluck, Sabrina Carpenter and Paris Berelc and was a standard rom-com with the twist being the main character, Jodi, was very tall and very self-conscious.

Tall Girl was by no means a smash hit when it came to the critics, however. The movie currently sits at a 5.2 on IMDb with critic scores similarly low at 44%.

Back in October 2019 after the initial film had released, Ava Michelle spoke to EliteDaily and said there were talks for a sequel. She teased that she hoped fans would see Michelle go into her final year of school saying:

“I’m excited to see hopefully Jodi’s senior year and to see what happens there, but I really don’t know. There’s talk, but I really don’t know, we’ll see.”

Since then, all has been quiet and of course, there’s been a global pandemic that likely halted any development.

It was then in December 2020 when DiscussingFilm got the scoop that Netflix was developing a sequel. They revealed that Sam Wolfson would be returning to write the sequel’s screenplay and news today backs that up.

Filming, as confirmed by ProductionWeekly issue 1236 suggests that filming is currently due to get underway in mid-April 2021 and wrap up in late May 2021. That means a 2021 release could be squeezed in but the more likely scenario is that it gets released sometime in 2022.

Here’s what you can expect from the sequel:

“After Jodi Kreyman gains popularity, her miscommunications start causing rifts with those around her and now she really needs to ‘stand tall’.”

The sequel will be filmed in New Orleans just like the first movie with McG, Mary Viola, Steven Bello and Corey Marsh continuing in executive producer roles.

Only Ava Michelle is currently listed to be returning but more familiar faces from the original will almost certainly return with a sprinkling of new ones too.

Read the original article

"The struggles of being 6'2" and shopping on the high street"

Fashion as a tall woman is a minefield 

By Lateefah Jean-Baptiste - Apr 26, 2019

The older I get, the less shopping on the high street appeals to me. As you're rushing around trying to find the perfect outfit for your friend’s birthday next week, you’re greeted with large groups of sightseeing tourists, sellers trying to get you to donate to their cause, and loud music coming the crowd forming around the break-dancers - it can all be a bit daunting for anyone. But imagine how it must feel when you’re 6’2".

With palazzo trousers that fit like culottes, and mini dresses that literally just about cover our bums, it can be hard out here for a tall girl. Being a 6’2" woman means that most of the stores on the high street don’t cater to my long torso and even longer legs.

I remember when I was looking for holiday outfits for a girls trip on the high street. I entered my first store and saw a few bits that I wanted to try on, and honestly what happened in that fitting room next was nothing short of comedic. First I attempted to try on a jumpsuit, but what I ended up with was a camel toe. However, I didn’t give up hope and tried on the next outfit.

This one was worse than the first one. This time it was my long arms and 36-inch legs that were the problem. The long sleeves were more like ¾ lengths and the wide leg bottom half of the jumpsuit fit like boot cuts, just about reaching my ankle.

As I looked in the mirror all I could do was think that I resembled Shawn Wayans from the shopping scene in White Chicks, when he burst out of the clothes he tried on in the fitting room. Comical, but not the look I was going for.

By the end of my failed shopping trip, I wondered why I even bothered with high street stores and turned to what can only be referred to as all tall girls shopping safe haven; ASOS Tall.

I recently noticed that many shops that do have ranges created for tall women are usually online only. Topshop recently removed their tall section from their Westfield Stratford store and I don’t think I have ever seen a Dorothy Perkins or New Look tall section in store. Which is probably why the tall women I know prefer online shopping.

“I’m annoyed that a number of big high street stores have taken out the tall ranges and opted to put them online too. It’s just not fair, I should have the right to try things on in store like everybody else,” 6’2” Artist Kirsty Latoya told Cosmopolitan UK.

“I have a love-hate relationship with shopping because of my long limbs, combined with a lack of stores providing tall enough clothes. Some items like jeans are frequently labelled as tall but they come so far up my leg they look like pedal-pushers!”

Youtuber Gifty Appiah noticed that there weren’t many clothing hauls that catered to tall women in the UK. Which is why she decided to film a Tall Girl Haul, where she shares her knowledge on the hotspots for tall girls to shop.

“I remember being in desperate need of a last-minute outfit for a night out, which meant I had no time to order online. I was on the hunt for a lightweight jacket to throw on, and nothing catered to my long arms,” says the 6ft Youtuber.

“Usually I’ll have to buy a size 16 instead of my usual size 12 just to get some extra length, and that’s still never really enough. It’s extremely frustrating, but that’s the reality of being 6ft and trying to find clothes that fit.”

If we’re being honest, a lot of the high street brands’ tall ranges aren’t exactly oozing with a variety of patterns, styles and colours. I can’t even begin to explain how frustrating it is walking into a store, seeing a cute playsuit and thinking "I really hope they have that in the tall section", only to check the tall range (online of course) to be meet with a range of basic t-shirts, jeans and jackets.

But I know it’s not only us tall girls that go through this. Petite and plus-sized women have often shared their struggle to find clothes that fit on the high street. However, online stores like Pretty Little Thing, Boohoo and Missguided have petite and plus size sections, so I’m hopeful the high street is beginning to think about different body types.

I guess, because I’ve been tall all my life, I’ve learned how to navigate the high street properly. I know what shops to go to and what ones to avoid, and thanks to shops like Zara and Mango occasionally having some pieces that cater to my body type, shopping is becoming easier.

But, for the most part if I want a pair of good quality trousers, jumpsuit or mini dress I head straight online.

All women should have the luxury of trying before we buy. Just once it would be nice to walk in a store and pick up a cute jumper without having to roll up the sleeves, or some decent pair trousers that don’t fit like ankle grazers.

Between the strangers mumbling ‘wow she is tall’and asking if you play basketball or model (because you know all tall girls are good for is modelling and playing sports), to then not being able to find anything that fits – it’s enough to send any tall girl over the edge.

Read the original article

25 Things Tall Girls Are Tired Of Hearing

Olivia Muenter

For as long as I can remember, I've been 6 feet tall. After a solid decade of telling everyone that I was only 5'11, I eventually realized that leaving the 5-Foot-And-Change club wasn't going to destroy my life. A revelation. And thanks to years and years of dealing with people commenting on my height, being able to reach all top shelves, and transforming 90 percent of jeans into capris instantly, I've had a few other revelations as well. First of all: Being tall can be kind of great. According to The Atlantic, tall people even make more money overall. Plus, we're just generally better human beings who are more attractive, successful, and intelligent than everyone else. OK, I may have made that last one up.

The crazy thing about being a 6-foot-tall woman is that I'm a over half a foot taller than the average woman in America. Put me in a pair of four-inch heels and I'm about 1,239 inches taller than the entire population of the universe stacked on top of one another. Give or take a few inches on that last statistic. Like a lot of tall girls I know, I've gone through the awkward teenage years and I've had a lot of "If I was only just a few inches shorter" conversations with myself in the mirror. But now, at 22, I've mostly come to realize that being tall is part of who I am, and that I shouldn't have to apologize or feel bad about it. However, that doesn't mean that being tall isn't still a pain sometimes — especially when it seems to constantly invite comments from average-sized people that range from weird to just plain rude. Here are 25 things tall girls are tired of hearing, before you even start to bring up sports.

Read the full article

While being tall is seen as an advantage in the world of fashion and runway models, in real life, it can seem that the majority of off-the-rack clothes simply aren’t made for taller than average families. From pants and coats to dresses, finding stylish garments which flatter your figure can be a challenge whatever your age, but there are some tips and tricks which can help. The key is knowing which styles and combinations will balance your proportions and highlight your best features while still providing comfort. To help you, here are six tall style tips for the whole family.

1. Balance is key

There should always be a balance to your outfit, so if you’re wearing a flowy skirt or wide-leg pants, your top should be fitted, and if you’re wearing an oversized shirt your pants should be fitted. This enables you to play with the proportions so you can accentuate the parts of your body you want people to notice.

2. Give your waist definition

Being long-legged is a great advantage in many areas of life, even if children and teenagers may have to spend a few years towering over their friends. Eventually, however, we all learn to love our long legs, and the best way to draw attention to them is to accentuate the waist with a belt. For slim women, this can also create the impression of curves. Men and boys should opt for belts to add definition to their waist rather than suspenders which will elongate the torso.

3. Embrace layering

Wearing more layers will give you both depth and dimension, which is perfect for slim or average builds. It will also add more variety and interest to your outfit which draws the eye across and down rather than up. Buying a range of varied by coordinating garments will also give you more versatility and flexibility throughout the seasons.

4. Double-breasted coats

In terms of coat styles (for women, men or children), tall people and those with broader shoulders have enough height to be able to carry off double-breasted jackets such as duffle and peacoats from Gloverall. You will look and feel incredibly stylish wearing one, and because they are perfect for both casual and formal wear, you can wear it as often as you want.

5. Be bold with shoes

You can draw attention away from your height by wearing bold and quirky shoes which will draw the eye down. Some taller people will wear dark and simple shoes to hide the fact that they have large feet, but this can make you appear even longer. Bear in mind that your shoes should tie in with the rest of your outfit or they may look too jarring.

6. Eye-catching accessories

Accessories which draw the eye are great for tall people such as necklaces or neckties. Don’t be afraid to add some color to your outfit with accessories such as scarves and hats. Men should opt for ties with extra length so that they can still tie them in a traditional way and retain enough length. In addition, wearing long socks can be a great way to avoid showing skin when pants ride up, which will make them appear to be ill-fitting.

6 Things That Only Tall Girls Understand About Fashion

By Sophia Chabbott

Have you ever wished there was a "long-limbed" section at your favorite store? If you're 5'7" or above, we'd be willing to bet that the thought has crossed your mind. True, some brands have embraced tall sizes for clothing categories like jeans - Topshop and ASOS, for example - the fact is that shopping for items that suit a tall frame can be a real challenge. On the other hand, it does havesomebenefits.

To all you tall girls out there: We get you. We really do.

1. You Have Learned to Love Your Ankles: You love a cropped pair of trousers as much as the next girl, but let's face it: The majority of your pants are ankle-length. Clamdiggers? Forget about it. They're practically short shorts when you're super tall. The good news is that cropped pants look seriously cute with loafers or ballet flats. (Thanks for the inspo, Audrey!)
2. You're a Master of Proportion Problems: Pants aren't the only items that come up short: Sleeves often look doll-size, and shirts sometimes can't even be tucked in. Then there are the midi skirts that fall at the knee, rather than midcalf. You've learned to eyeball items with the proper length and balance proportions with aplomb.
3. You Own the Shoe Sales: While most women crowd around the size 7 and 8 racks, there's no pushing or shoving on your side of the shoe floor—near the 9, 10, 11, and sometimes size 12 racks. Plus, your racks have thebestselect left. Those limited-edition designer heels? Yep, they're still available in a European size 40. The world of discounted footwear is your oyster.
4. You Have Boyfriend Blazers, Literally: Those boxy, oversize boyfriend blazers that everyone's wearing? Yeah, they hit too high on your hips. Instead, you shop in the men's section or even ask your boyfriend (or just guy friend!) to borrow one of his killer jackets. Sorry, no backsies.
5. You Can Wear Flats 99 Percent of the Time: Sure, flats are for everyone, but you can even get away with a pair of flat gladiators or ankle boots for a dressy night on the town. Yes, you're also the envy of all the other women scrunching their toes into six-inch stilettos. (Ouch!)
6. Maxidresses Are Your Jam: Eureka! No need to shorten a flowy summer maxidress. Just throw on a pair of flat sandals and you're out the door and looking chic.

Read the original article

6 Ways Being Tall Impacts Your Health

From heart disease to a high IQ, being vertically gifted affects your health in a slew of different ways

By Macaela MacKenzie

When you were a kid, being vertically gifted when everyone else was still a shrimp got you called a bean pole on the playground. Luckily, as an adult, it likens you to sky-high ladies like Karlie Kloss and Gisele Bundchen. But being tall affects more than just the names you got called and whether you want to wear heels on a date—it actually has an impact on your disease risk and brain health. Check out these six ways having legs for days impacts your well-being.

1. You could be at an increased risk of cancer. A new study from Sweden found that the taller you are, the higher your risk for cancer is. In fact, researchers discovered that if two people have the exact same risk for cancer (based on genetics and lifestyle), the taller person is 18 percent more likely to develop cancer for every 10 centimeters (roughly four inches) they have on their friend. Additionally, leggy ladies were 30 percent more likely to develop skin cancer and 20 percent more likely to develop breast cancer. Whoa! Researchers, haven't identified why extra inches could lead to the extra risk, but their best guess is that the more cells and tissue you have, the more likely it is that some of those cells will develop abnormally and become cancerous.

Besides breast and skin cancer, tall women also have a slightly heightened risk of ovarian cancer (about three percent). Even though this is slight, ovarian cancer is a silent killer, so tall ladies need to be extra good about regular ob-gyn appointments (find out Why No One Is Talking About Ovarian Cancer).

2. Height does your heart good and bad. According to a 2014 study from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, taller people have a increased risk of certain heart issues like atrial fibrillation and valve disease. However, the researchers also found that other conditions like congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease are actually less common for those with a higher reach. What gives? The hypothesis is two fold: For the perks, researchers think smaller people have smaller valves that may simply clog more easily. In cases where height hinders heart health, though, scientists are currently looking at growth hormones for an explanation. One guess is that a hormone that makes people statuesque also makes them susceptible to heart problems.

3. Tall ladies tend to live shorter lives. According to research from the University of Hawai'i, there's a certain gene, dubbed "the longevity gene," that not only lengthens your lifespan but also shortens your stature. Unfortunately, the taller you are, the shorter you're likely to live. And the reverse is true for short folks—those below 5 foot 2 inches lived the longest.

4. Vertical inches could slash diabetes risk. A meta analysis of 18 studiespublished by the journal Obesity Reviews found the taller a woman is, the less likely she is to develop type 2 diabetes. Interestingly, the correlation didn't hold true for men who had a similar risk no matter their height, although researchers aren't quite sure why. (No matter your stature, keep an eye out for these 7 Silent Symptoms of Pre-Diabetes.)

5. Dementia could be more common in short gals. Researchers at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland found that women who were 5-foot-1 had a 35 percent higher risk of dementia than ladies who were 5-foot-4 or above. Pardon the pun, but that's pretty mind-blowing. So what's the deal with dementia and size? According to the researchers, being super short cane sometimes be the product of developmental difficulties in childhood like stress or poor nutrition, which are also risk factors for dementia.

6. The leggy ladies could be smarter. Being tall may have other brain benefits too: According to another University of Edinburgh study, researchers found taller people have slightly higher IQs. Previous research had found not-very-shocking family connections (tall, smart parents tend to produce tall, smart kids) but this is the first study to find the same correlation in people who don't share DNA. Let's hear it for the vertically-gifted gals! (Not vertically gifted? Try these 10 Easy Ways to Get Smarter—Stat.)

Read the original article

'I'm really proud of who I have become': Nearly 7-foot-tall Regina woman embraces positive thinking 

'Be kind to your body, because it's the only one you are going to get'

Nichole Huck · CBC News · Posted: Apr 30, 2018 6:00 AM CT | Last Updated: April 30

Miranda Weber has always had to deal with high expectations. At six feet 11-and-a-half inches, the 18 year old from Regina is the tallest of a very tall family. Her grandfather and mother both stood six feet eight inches tall. Her uncle is six-foot-ten. 

Miranda's mother Kathy says she always knew her daughter was destined for great heights. "She was never going to be a point guard or a setter, she was destined to be someone who had stature," she said. A doctor had once predicted Weber would peak at five-foot-nine, then it was changed to six-foot-five. "Here I am," Miranda said with a laugh. 

Early expectations

In Elementary school Miranda stood six to eight inches taller than her classmates. "In grade three I was the size of a seventh grader," she said. 

Know who you are and be kind to your body because it's the only one you are going to get - Miranda Weber

That additional stature brought heightened expectations from adults. "She'd be playing at the playground and someone would come over and say she's too big for that. People would expect her to act older than her age," Kathy said. 

Miranda became accustomed to the tell-tale tingle in her legs, a sign that she was about to have another growth spurt. "I would be very clumsy and unbalanced, think of it as being on a pair of stilts," Miranda said. 

She has used her height to her advantage for volleyball. She played with the Saskatchewan Renegades volleyball team. Now she is studying kinesiology at the University of Regina with the hopes of one day becoming a sport psychologist.

Following in her mother's big footsteps 

Kathy smiles as she listens to her daughter talk about wearing cowgirl boots to her graduation ceremony. For Kathy it's a sign of confidence, something she herself has worked hard to develop.

"Thankfully I've embraced being a tall woman. I'm really proud of who I have become and I'm able to showcase that with my daughter," Kathy said.

That confidence shines through in the advice Miranda offers to other young women. 

"Believe in yourself, know your talents, know who you are and be kind to your body, because it's the only one you are going to get."

Read the original article

CHAPTER 1: The bitter reality of the normal distribution curve.

I've always thought that the best one wins! In any case, in any setting. So the more qualified you are, attractive, intelligent, kind, honest, rational etc…the more you are likely to have a better life. 

I WAS WRONG! 

The case is that the more common, ordinary and non exceptional you are the more you are likely to have a peaceful, happy and harmonious life!!!

Its as simple as that: Majority wins! So lets say that we have a group of 999 idiots and 1 intelligent person who vote for a matter. What gets decided? I think you already know the answer: The stupidest solution! Statistically proven!

All my life I have struggled to be the best or at least among the best in what I'm doing. People who have known me over my life course know that. They have seen it, they have sensed it. Of course I had failures, big ones indeed… It's human nature, you can't always be successful but that's not the case. It's the underlying behavioral pattern that matters. Its your cosmic theory, the way you were brought up … It's this adrenaline rush I get when I feel that I have achieved something. It makes you feel alive… At least certain people…

I have never thought, though that I belong somewhere, this feeling of security and comfort… Because I didn't… I have always expected an attack, verbal, practical …something to put me out of rest. Several times I have asked my self: What am I doing to deserve this? Aren't I honest, intelligent, good-looking, hardworking etc enough. What am I missing? The answer is that I am not like all the rest. I am not average.

According to psychological research methods outliers are eliminated from the normal distribution curve. It really doesn't matter whether you are really bad or good as long as you are not average….

CHAPTER 2: Human dynamics…

This article is directed to tall females in their childhood and adolescent years. The truth though is that all the statements made here are not only applied to height but to any other characteristic - physical or not - that distinguishes a person from the rest.

Ever since I could remember myself I was head a taller than all the rest. Subconsciously - what does a child know…. - it gave me a feeling of pride but I was always conscious that I was different that all the other kids. What really made me doubt my self is this psychological war that was directed towards me while growing up. They just couldn't accept the fact that I was different. You do become brainwashed!!!! It is really tragic how your rationality can turn against you. "If everybody says that and I am not then in all probability they are right and I am wrong" is what rationally you would think. 

That is not the case: People would support what is more convenient to them, according to their interests. And if most people are average, statistically speaking you are about to be found in the small range that is isolated. 

Over the years I have read many biographies… Everybody thought that Einstein was crazy…and he was the most intelligent man in the world……. Claudia Schiffer confessed that all her life was slouching because she was the tallest kid in the school….. and that was the primary characteristic that led her to become a supermodel! Mozart was attacked all his life my someone who was…. simply average, Salieri (excuse my incorrect spelling)….. and was led to death.

All these exceptional people had really hard lifes. They were paying the price of being different.

Apply that to your everyday life: Who sells the biggest number or records, wins in reality shows? Certainly not the most gifted. Who is the most popular girl at school? Certainly not the tallest, most beautiful, best student, creative, humorous or generous.

The answer is the one to whom most others can relate or can benefit from.That is truly the answer. All your qualities no matter how exceptional they are, are indifferent to others if they don't see themselves related somehow to them.

The same principle is applied to friendships. How many times were you bitter about the way you were treated when you have been so good to others? Those people simply weren't the same kind of people as you ,so don't expect to get treated accordingly. 

CHAPTER 3: The lost femininity

With men things are even more complicated. If you do think that things have changed much since the 50's the you are wrong.Legally yes,mentally very little. It took me a while to accept it my self. My mum says that God gave to males strength and to females brains. I still can't accept the fact how men think.That's probably the reason I have never been popular with them. I have always tried to upgrade myself in order to be able to claim more from relationships.The more I did the worse I made things for me….. Do you know why? 

• Because I got stressed and I stressed others as well(Stress is contagious!)

• I got better and I was not easily accessible. 

• I was respectful and others thought I was snobbish.

That's it! I do know you have the best intentions, BUT WHO CARES? If you want to get results you should talk to the other person's language. And if the other person's language is not very sophisticated then either you have to downgrade yours or…. simply not expect anything from them, abandon them no matter how painful that is. I know this angers you….. I had my piece of frustration as well… I have recovered from most of my anger over time…. I think I have…. In fact I was furious….. It still gets to me… I encourage you to read Marian's must read article "I won. I am sorry!". 

Many friends of mine who are men say that this is not true, they just don't have the time to deal with women who pretend to be sophisticated. I think this is an excuse. A truly sophisticated woman doesn't have to pretend to be anything. 

I am probably the biggest fan of the male role: In fact I would love to have a man who is a leader,strong and tender towards me. A stronger man? Why not… The point is how many men really adhere to the male role? From my experience and what my friends say, noone … In fact most women I know are the head of the family as they are the ones who really deal with the financial matters and do all the work. Only on the outside men look as if they are the ones who take up responsibility, who go to pay the bill. 

I have heard it from a friend of mine: "Whenever I wanted a man I had to fight for him. They simply wouldn't take the initiative to be straightforward with me". With a very tall woman, things are even worse… Men are so intimidated they would never admit it. I have abandoned my feminine identity years ago, simply because I was led to. I could see in they eyes that I threatened them somehow… Some have even admitted that they would never have approached me if I hadn't talked to them first. I cannot change my physique so at the end of their day it their problem. Don't think that things are different with tall men. In fact things are worse. Tall men are probably most threatened by a very tall woman simply because they are used at looking down at women. Combine that with the sense of masculinity that every man has to boost his ego and there is not chance that they will go after a tall woman. They are doubly threatened. Small women are convenient to them and boost their sense of superiority. I am speaking from experience… you have seen it yourselves: It's always a tall man with a short woman. Many of them have the hang ups that were created to them because of teasing in their younger years… Therefore they don't want to double the effect they are causing by dating someone very tall like themselves.

I know this blog post is not that topical but I'm publishing it anyway

Written by my good friend Uche Belinda Nnoka 

I was reading a blog post a couple of days ago written by a gentleman who provides resources for people experiencing workplace bullying. He had set up this organisation as a result of his own experiences with bullying in the workplace.

His post was about workplace violence where victims, after prolonged harassment and injustice, snap and kill their colleagues. The author made statements along the lines that not enough work place bullies are shot and killed and it serves them right when it happens!

It was obvious that the author was still deeply affected by the workplace bullying he had endured some years ago. His article was written in such a way that if someone read it and upon doing so decided to kill the colleagues who were causing them such anxiety, he could potentially have been implicated for inciting violenceIt was obvious that the author was still deeply affected by the workplace bullying he had endured some years ago. His article was written in such a way that if someone read it and upon doing so decided to kill the colleagues who were causing them such anxiety, he could potentially have been implicated for inciting violence.

What is PTSD?

This again made me ponder the issue of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The National Health Service (NHS) website describes PTSD as follows:
PTSD is an anxiety disorder caused by very stressful, frightening or distressing events. PTSD can develop immediately after someone experiences a disturbing event or it can occur weeks, months or even years later. It is estimated to affect about 1 in every 3 people who have a traumatic experience, but it's not clear exactly why some people develop the condition and others don't.

From what I understand people that suffer from PTSD will either explode or implode. We've all either read or heard about the tragic shootings that have taken place in US schools, but there are debates about whether or not these shootings were manifestations of PTSD as a result of bullying or some other trauma. For arguments sake, let's say that 50% of the shooters were bullied; their actions show that they exploded. They lashed out in revenge at those around them. Then you get the following group who we typically hear about. These are the ones who self-harm; they cut their arms, they take drugs, they drown themselves in alcohol and tragically some commit suicide. These are the ones who implode, or harm themselves instead of those around them.

People affected by PTSD

There is yet another group of people who we do not hear about as much, but who also have a form of PTSD. I have a suspicion that this group is the majority, but there aren't any concrete statistics to back up my theory. These are people who neither implode nor explode as in the examples given, but just limp through life. They have been emotionally scarred by an incident or incidents, and although though they do not lean towards either extreme, their entire lives are lived in the shadow of what happened to them.

I'll give you an example. During the 50's-80's it was common for families from African and Caribbean backgrounds who wanted a better life for themselves and their families to go abroad to the country of their choice and leave their children behind in the care of relatives whilst they tried to get themselves established. The logic was they wanted to send for their children once they had found a decent home for the family to live in along with secure jobs so that the transition for their children from one culture to another would be as smooth as possible. This was the situation that my friend Anna found herself in. Anna had been left in the custody of her aunt and unfortunately, like a lot of other children in the same situation, she was horribly abused by her mother's sister.

Anna's mother would send money to the aunt to contribute towards the food shopping and other expenditures, but Anna was starved on a regular basis. Clothes that were sent from Anna's for her to wear were instead given to her cousins by her aunt, so she was both hungry and unkempt. One day, unable to endure the hunger anymore, Anna snuck into the kitchen to get some food. She was caught by her aunt, who promptly beat her and tied her to a tree in the yard for the entire night. This episode led to Anna having a life long struggle with food; she would only ever eat a small bowl of food (which is the portion she was allowed when she lived with her aunt) in the evenings which was not particularly nutritious and was the cause of her weight issues. As Anna explained all these things to me, I recalled her also saying in a previous conversation that if she could live life without eating a meal, she would. Her trauma over her abuse lasted nearly 40 years.

There are many people who are living like Anna as well as like people in my previous examples. I would love to be in a position to work with these people to help them work through their trauma and help them get their lives back on track. One of my goals is to be able to study what PTSD truly is and get a professional qualification. One of the things I would love to be able to do is to give sound counsel to those I meet on my travels who are suffering in this way. If you would be interested in helping me realise this goal, please visit my GoFundMe page. When I start the course I will keep people abreast of my progress via this blog so keep checking in!

Read the original article

The astonishing Lindsay Kay Haywardis part of a new series on TLC. It's called "My Giant Life" and will begin airing on the U.S. cable network on July 14 at 10 p.m. EST/9 p.m. CST.

All of the cast members are well over six-feet tall. The shortest woman featured in the show - Colleen, a 36-year-old former pro-Volleyball player – stands at six feet six inches tall and the tallest - Nancy Mulkey, a Texan high school basketball player - is six feet nine inches. Lindsay is not quite 6'9" herself (she officially stands at 6'8 3/4") and the World's Tallest Actress. As you can imagine these ladies have a lot to say about themselves and what challenges they are facing in their daily lives.

BYJULIE MAZZIOTTA @julietmazz

06/21/2016 AT 09:45 AM EDT

At 6'9", landing acting gigs is no easy task for actress Lindsay Hayward. And her bad head shots aren't helping.

To reignite her career, Hayward hires a photographer for new head shots in this exclusive clip from Tuesday's episode of My Giant Life.

"I'm here to get my head shots done, because last time I took head shots was a few years ago, so I definitely want to update my new, more radiant look," Hayward, 28, says in the clip. "I think that it's going to do wonders as far as getting my further in my acting career."

But as it turns out, Hayward is looking for less of a head shot, and more of a body shot.

"As a six-foot-nine-inch actress it's very, very important that I get full-length body shots because nobody believes how tall you are."

Hayward hates her old head shots because they were shot from an unflattering angle – by someone shorter than her – giving her a double chin.

"Everyone's looking at me from way down here and like I'm way up here, and when they look at me I've got that double chin angle, you know what I mean? It's not very flattering," she says. "Because I do have that as an insecurity, I need someone who's not taking that shot all the time."

"If I could change anything about my looks I would make my face a little bit thinner here," Hayward admits, pointing to her neck.

Luckily, she found a photographer, Sharon, who understands – even if she was a little surprised at Hayward's size.

"Holy cow, okay!" Sharon says. "I am used to working with much smaller people, so I was not expecting her to be as tall as she was."

Read the original article

Another somewhat older article (written in 2012) but worth sharing

A girl who endured years of name-calling and even physical abuse because of her height has had the last laugh against school bullies - as she's now eyeing a career as a model.

Caroline Stillman, who was 6ft 4 by the age of 13, was once forced to become home-schooled because of the daily torrent of abuse she received from malicious pupils.

But now aged 20, the pretty blonde says she is finally happy with her size and has even been approached by model scouts who think she'd be perfect for the catwalk.

Read the full article

Woman who grew to 7ft tall thanks to undiscovered tumour marries man over a foot shorter

Laura Abernethy - Wednesday 9 Jun 2021 5:03 pm

From the age of 10, Elisane Silva started to notice she was much taller than her classmates, and even her family.

At that stage she was already 5ft 9 but she kept growing, and now the 26-year-old stands at 6ft 8in.

Her mother Ana Maria Ramos is just 5ft 4in and father Luiz Jorge is 5ft 7in so they didn’t think it was down to genetics.

They later discovered her stature is down to a benign tumour on her pituitary gland, which has caused an overproduction of growth hormone and a condition called giantism.

Elisane, from Salinopolis, Brazil, had no idea about the tumour until 2010 when she had tests on live TV, as her family was unable to pay for them.

Known unofficially as ‘Brazil’s tallest woman’, she married Francinaldo Da Silva Carvalho, 31, in 2015 and he stands at just 5ft 4in – 1ft 4in shorter than her

‘Since I was ten-years-old, I always noticed that there wasn’t something quite right as I was the only one in my family and class that stood at a staggering five-foot-nine-inches,’ Elisane said.

‘My mother is only five-foot-four-inches and my father is just five-foot-seven-inches, so it was a shock to our entire family when I was the tallest member at so young.

‘I began experiencing intense pain in my bones and a lot of pressure build up in my head which I believe was due to the excessive rate I was growing, so we decided to visit a medical professional./p>

‘They suggested performing a few routine tests to get to the bottom of why I was so tall, but as my family were unable to pay for the medical costs, this wasn’t an option.

‘However, a national television network approached my family after hearing my story and in 2010, we flew to Sao Paulo, Brazil, where I appeared on national television and had all my tests done for free on behalf of the network.

‘Although this was embarrassing, I was just glad to finally have an answer and to stop the pain that I was going through as a result of my height.

‘As I received the results, medics found that I had a benign tumour growing on my pituitary gland which had caused an overproduction in my growth hormone and was the reason for my condition.’

Growing up wasn’t easy for Elisane and she was often bullied, with people calling her names like ‘giraffe’, ‘lamppost’ and ‘giant’.

The comments impacted her mental health significantly and she eventually left school completely.

‘I remember locking myself up at home as I felt so sick with the hurtful comments and words people were constantly saying to me,’ said Elisane.

‘I decided to give up and it was the hardest decision I have ever had to make, as I wanted to continue studying but I knew that I wouldn’t last any longer in that environment.

‘At the time, I was seventeen-years-old, so my parents didn’t have much to say on the matter and I was really lost about where to go next in life.’

In 2011, she met Francinaldo and they quickly fell in love, despite the height difference.

‘I felt an instant connection the moment I met him, that I didn’t even notice his height. Francinaldo stands at just five-foot-four-inches, which is nearly two-foot shorter than me – but I didn’t care,’ she said.

‘Although he was curious about my height and condition, he didn’t make any evil comments, nor did he judge me for the way I looked.

‘I fell for him right there and then, as he was the first person to treat me like a human being and not some freak of nature.

‘Although there is an obvious height difference, we don’t see it as an issue as we love each other just the way we are and wouldn’t want anything to change.

‘In 2012, Francinaldo proposed to me and even though I was just a teenager, I wanted to spend my life with him.’

They married in September 2015 and went on to have a son, Angelo, three, who is currently 3ft 1in.

Elisane said: ‘Although we used to get comments from people in the street when we were walking together, I’m no longer the centre of attention now we have our beautiful son.

‘Angelo is already three-foot-three-inches at three-years-old, but I don’t believe he will grow to be as tall as me because I don’t think my condition is hereditary.

‘I think he will grow up to be average height – but even if not, he should embrace the unique asset he has been given.’

Elisane is now working towards becoming a professional model, which has been a dream since she was a teenager.

She said: ‘Although I haven’t been successful just yet, I usually go out and take professional photos of myself and add it to my portfolio to pass on to agencies.

‘Despite no agencies picking up on them yet, these photo sessions have helped my levels of confidence immensely and I have started to love myself for who I am.

‘I get comments from those online who see my photos, who have called me the ‘tallest woman in Brazil’ and although this is probably true, nothing has been made official yet.’

Although she spent many years feeling self conscious about her height, she says her family have helped her learn to love who she is.

She added: ‘I have learned to love myself for my unique height, as there’s no-one quite like me and I think that’s rather special.

‘I have found a good man to love, have a wonderful son, a beautiful family and I am grateful that God has taught me to overcome these obstacles in life.

‘Don’t let people’s evil comments interfere with your life, as it’s not for them to judge you based on how you look or who you love – stay true to yourself and you’ll live happily.’

Read the original article

8 Things My Very Tall Daughter Can Expect

by Ali Solomon
Posted:03/18/2015 10:26 am EDTUpdated:03/18/2015 10:59 am EDT

You can't escape your genes, my dear girl. I was 5'9" by the time I was in fourth grade. Your father tops out at around 6'3". That means you will be very, very tall. Not quite "America's Next Top Model" tall, or WNBA tall. More like "stuck in the back of every class photo" tall, or "can you reach the soup on that top shelf for me, dear?" tall. This will not be the social coup you think; like your parents, you may endure your share of taunts and nastiness, with the promise of someday you'll appreciate being tall to carry you through.

As you continue your upward trajectory, here are a few things you can expect:

1. You will experience a series of minor disappointments.

You will outgrow your tricycle after only riding it once.

You won't be able to go on kiddie rides at the amusement park.

Your gymnastics career will be short-lived.

That purple jacket you loved now ends a full three inches above your wrist.

No one will want to give you piggyback rides.

And I've looked for weeks, but those Dora the Explorer light-up sneakers you covet don't come in your size. Sorry, hon.

Sorry for it all.

2. Everyone will know you're tall.

You're not fooling anyone. You can hunch your shoulders, duck behind people or pull your knees to your chest when you sit. It changes nothing. You just become the "tall girl with the bad posture."

Unlike short girls who can wear heels, there's nothing you can do to adjust your height. I remember it well, and it's hard to embrace something you're still growing into. But if you hulk around like a velociraptor, everyone will think you have spine issues.

3. People will think you have skills you don't possess.

I remember loving the fact that I was picked first for sports teams. To be fair, I had no athletic ability whatsoever (I was the type of kid who would drop a ball and then immediately trip over it). But for that brief moment before anyone actually saw me play, my height convinced people otherwise.

If people who see your your elongated limbs assume you run fast, are graceful or have coordination, don't correct them. By the time they learn the truth, you'll already be the team captain.

Read the full article

Fact One:

There are loads of tall (or extremely tall) women and teenagers like 6'11" Marvadene or 6'5" Emma out there who know what you are going through. Some girls may even be able to lend you an open ear or support of sorts. You decide what is going to happen here, alright? Fill out the form below and tell me what you're missing here (and, no, it's not all about meeting boys!) ;-)

Fact Two:

In a lot of cases all tall young women lack is confidence. If you have enough confidence you'll find how exciting being tall can be. I came across a very useful website today after discussing the confidence / shyness factor with some young UK friends of mine. Thanks to Sacha and Jo for reminding me of the confidence factor!

You could also tell me if you find anything on this website that you find unsuitable for you or other girls your age (or even younger) - I promise  to look into it and even take down the features / links concerned.

What you can / should / shouldn't do

Perhaps you want to tell your own story. Feel free to get in touch with me and tell us how you're feeling, what you feel you're lacking (in regard to support from parents, teachers, friends etc.) and what you think is great about you. Or what is it that you don't like about yourself? I bet you'll find later that being a kid / teen was half as bad as you then thought. :-)

Of course there are bad things that could happen to a tall girl. Read what my friend Tiffany had to go through instead of a enjoying a great Prom Night. This is a very sad story but Tiffany has come out of it stronger than ever before. She has found herself a cute boyfriend now and - as far as I know - the two are now happily married!

If you still don't like being tall or even hate it - don't despair. I know that it's not easy being a teenager (I've been there myself a long time ago). Talk to people you trust. Don't give in to stupid comments from class"mates" or even teachers. Being a teacher doesn't always qualify a person for being a good human being (I've found that out too - years ago).

Get rid of "friends" who have a negative attitude towards you because they aren't your friends. Make sure you feel good and do whatever it takes to assure that you feel good. You still rule!

By Harold Gutmann | Apr 9, 2015
Special to espnW

It all finally got to be too much, so Nancy Mulkey sat down. Right there on the spattered sidewalk in San Antonio.

Gawking bystanders were taking pictures of the 17-year-old kid because -- sure as her name is Nancy -- she stands 6 feet, 9 inches tall. So if even for just 10 minutes, before heading off to her next destination down the road, Mulkey needed a break, an escape from the scrutiny of all these strangers.

It was the kind of experience that, believe it or not, is relatively routine for Mulkey -- for tall women everywhere -- and Mulkey says that San Antonio scene could be included in an upcoming TLC show featuring Mulkey that is scheduled to air in August. It is tentatively titled "My Giant Life."

Mulkey, who has been pushing 6-10 since a nine-inch growth spurt before her freshman year in high school, is still sometimes annoyed by the gawking, but she's also become more confident about her stature. Success has a way of doing that.

"I'm not as shy about my height," said Mulkey, who just polished off her junior season at Cypress Woods (Texas) with a girls' basketball state title. "I strut more. I'm not slouching as much. I want to stand tall."

And a big reason for her transformation, Mulkey said, has been basketball. The Oklahoma-bound junior post player is the No. 21 prospect in the espnW HoopGurlz Super 60 for the Class of 2016. She has agility, good hands and an emerging midrange game. On defense, she's a dangerous shot-blocker who alters opponents' offenses merely by her presence.

"When you're a tall female and a teenager, that can be awkward at times, but what has really catapulted Nancy to a place of confidence has been her ability to do well on the basketball court," Cypress Woods coach Virginia Flores said. "When she walks the hall in our school, there's a sense of respect and even reverence for what she's been able to bring to our basketball program, and of course that's a confidence-booster for Nancy, and in turn it's made her hungrier and want to improve her game even more."

When the producers of the TLC documentary were looking for potential subjects, they typed "tall women" into an Internet search engine and found Mulkey.

After an audition with a producer over Skype, Mulkey was chosen as one of four subjects for the series, which is scheduled to air over four hours in August. She did not get paid and she received notification from the NCAA that appearing on the show would not jeopardize her eligibility.

The television show is meant to document the day-to-day hardships for tall women, such as finding clothes that fit (Mulkey was filmed trying on prom dresses) and dealing with constant -- and oftentimes uncomfortable -- attention.

The series will cap a whirlwind junior year for Mulkey. She gave a verbal commitment to Oklahoma in October and then averaged 10.3 points, 7.1 rebounds and 3.7 blocks as Cypress Woods won its first state championship in program history in Class 6A, the highest classification in the state.

"I didn't plan on committing this early, but people say, 'When you know, you know,' " said Mulkey, who plans to major in special education.

Mulkey was guided through the process by her mother, 6-foot-7 Dolores Bootz-Mulkey, who starred for Georgia Tech from 1985 to 1988 and still holds the school records for career scoring average (18.9 points per game), field goal percentage (.593) and blocked shots (245).

Mulkey, who started playing basketball in third grade, had initially told the Sooners that she wasn't interested, and Oklahoma wasn't included on her list of finalists. But Sooners coach Sherri Coale called Dolores and convinced the Mulkeys to visit campus.

When Nancy got there, she felt a welcoming atmosphere she didn't get from other schools.

"Usually when recruits go on visits, some players at certain schools don't really associate with certain recruits," Mulkey said. "The Oklahoma players devoted their whole weekend just to me. That meant a lot to me, and I felt really comfortable with them. I was there one day and I didn't want to leave."

Then came a historic season for Cypress Woods. Mulkey said a loss in the state tournament last year to Manvel and future Notre Dame standout Brianna Turner helped prepare the Wildcats for their first state championship this season.

"That showed us what we needed to work on and how we needed to play to win states," said Mulkey, who averaged more than 10 points, seven rebounds and three blocks per game and was an all-state selection by the Texas Girls Coaches Association.

After winning gold medals on Team USA in each of the past two summers -- first at the 2013 FIBA Americas U16 Championship and then at the 2014 FIBA U17 World Championship -- Mulkey is now hoping for an invitation to the U19 tryouts next month.

"Her playing with the USA team the last two summers has really elevated her game," Flores said. "When you're around other people who are around your height, that can push you in a way that maybe your own high school teammates can't and made her step up her game."

Spending another summer with Team USA would be an ideal finish for a big year in the spotlight for Mulkey, who found her future school, won a state title and will be featured on national television -- perhaps even that sidewalk scene in downtown San Antonio.

"It's been tough for her at times to be 6-9," Flores said. "When we first get to a tournament, people aren't familiar with her and they're staring and gawking. When she was a freshman that was hard for her to take in, but now she embraces that. She's like, 'Yeah, I'm 6-9 and I'm pretty darn good.'

"She now looks at it as a sign of respect."

Read the original article

Belfast mum Hollie McCutcheon bullies should be ashamed, funeral told

By Brett Campbell | June 21 2019

The school bullies whose nasty words ultimately led to the death of a young Belfast mum who suffered a heart attack on Saturday "should be ashamed of themselves", a clergyman has said.

Hundreds of mourners gathered in St Matthew's Parish on the Shankill Road to say goodbye to Hollie McCutcheon (27) yesterday, including her seven-year-old son Nathan and partner Chris.

Rev Campbell Dixon praised the loving family of the former Girls Model pupil, including her heartbroken parents Janet and Leslie, for the support they provided right up until Hollie lost her battle with eating disorders.

"Hollie was a tall girl with a solid physique who was subjected to bullying at school," he said.

"This led to her being hospitalised for anorexia and bulimia, but her mum, dad, brother Andrew and sister Hannah were her constant champions.

"Sadly on Saturday morning her heart couldn't take any more.

"The damage caused over so many years took its toll and she slipped away."

The clergyman said the middle child had enjoyed a happy life until she started secondary school where she encountered those "who caused her death far too early".

"Did those who made Hollie's life a misery as she entered her teenage years ever give one thought about what their nastiness would do to a well-balanced and happy child?" he asked.

"They should be ashamed of themselves."

Rev Dixon also had strong words for the person who started a rumour on social media falsely claiming that Hollie had taken her own life.

"Shame on you," he told them.

The clergyman then rubbished an old rhyme as he warned the congregation that calling someone names can hurt more than sticks and stones ever could.

"Words can cause terrible pain and bring about untold suffering," he added.

He told mourners Hollie managed to complete her GCSEs after being released from the Donard Unit of Knockbracken Healthcare Park before starting her first job in Costa Coffee. She then moved on to work for Value Cabs where romance blossomed when she met Sean. "The pair were overjoyed when Nathan was born a few years later," Rev Dixon said. "But Hollie never stopped fighting her demons. Her and Sean later broke up, but Nathan was the best thing that ever happened to her and he became a source of encouragement whenever her illness was too much to bear.

"Janet believes he was a wee Godsend because Nathan gave her something to live for."

The clergyman said Sean continued to be a huge source of support even after Hollie met her partner Chris, who doted on her.

Hollie's sister Hannah previously said the "very, very close" couple did everything together.

Those gathered in the church were told Hollie only "found her niche in life" two years ago when she started working as a carer.

"Hollie really loved her work and made great friends through it.

"She was a fun girl despite her debilitating illness and by all accounts she was the life and soul of the party who loved dancing and singing," Rev Dixon said.

This was evident from the slideshow of pictures which played throughout the service.

"But it was a tragic life in many ways," the clergyman continued.

"Here was a larger-than-life character who loved people, socialising, working and caring for those who needed help - but despite all appearances she was brought down into the depths of despair."

Dozens of Hollie's colleagues from Quality Care Services formed a guard of honour outside the church as her coffin was carried away. On the casket was a note from little Nathan who sobbed uncontrollably while following behind. "To Mummy, I love and miss you xxx," it read.

Loved ones tried desperately to console the youngster as his mum embarked on her final journey to Roselawn Crematorium.

Read the original article

Sunday, 7 June 2015 - 6:30am | Place: Mumbai | Agency: dna | From the print edition

Roshni Nair, Averil Nunes, Rama Sreekant

Too short or too tall, they don't fit society's definition of 'normal' and often find themselves on the margins of mainstream life. But they have taken on the challenge imposed by their height to forge their own identities. Roshni Nair, Averil Nunes and Rama Sreekant get an insight into the the struggles of those who give us valuable life lessons in how to make the most of adversity

Gender games

"One of my clients, a schoolgirl, lost all self-confidence as she had a tough time due to her height," says Chhabria. "She'd slouch and shun socialising because she perennially feared she'd be made fun of. As it is, every girl is body-conscious at a point. When kids make fun of you at this juncture, it can scar."

Goregaon resident Vijaya Pawar has been witness to this. She stands 5'10" tall and is hardly what one would insensitively call a 'giant'. But she grew up at a time when the average Indian height was less than what it is today. "In my village, people would say things like 'Tu bahut jaldi budhdhi ho jayegi', or 'You're so big now, why aren't you married yet?' This was when I was still in school," she says, and admits the pressure to fit in led to the drooping of the shoulders and consequently, a slight but lifelong hunch.

"I've seen mothers of girls who are 5'9"-5'10" encouraging them to stoop because they 'won't get boys who'll marry them'," shares orthopaedist Dr Neeraj Bijlani. Public infrastructure is also not adjusted for tall Indians, leave alone 'abnormally tall' ones, he adds. So having to constantly bend or sit uncomfortably in seats that are ergonomic only for the majority can predispose one to joint problems.

Then there's Scheuermann's Disease, a classic example of a socio-cultural phenomenon leading to a medical issue. Bijlani explains: "This condition is caused due to constant slouching, which affects the growth of the vertebrae and creates a hunchback. In my practice, the male-female prevalence is 1:10."

There's more. "If those affected are still growing, belts, braces and posture correction can be undertaken. The condition can't be reversed for adults. Their only option is corrective surgery," he says.

Citing numerous studies, The Atlantic's Joe Pinsker said in a May 2015 article titled 'The Financial Perks of Being Tall', "...an extra inch is worth almost $800 a year in elevated earnings." Meaning the taller you are, the more you'll earn – if you're in a 'Western' country.

Former I Am She Miss Universe India runner-up Reha Sukheja is yet to have a level playing field, leave alone get a fatter paycheck than peers. At 6'1", this 24-year-old is often rejected at auditions for commercials due to her height. "People say, 'Sorry, you're too tall'. If I'm auditioning for 10 ads, I'll go beyond step one in maybe two-three. Mostly since those will be 'solo girl' ads with no men," she says.

When she was in school, her PT teacher pushed her into the basketball queue even though she wanted to play volleyball. And having to cock her ear to hear what people around are saying is routine. "It's awkward posing for pictures. And yes, people look me up and down – first to see my height, then at my feet to check if I'm wearing heels and then back up again for confirmation," she laughs. But all this, she adds, isn't a bugbear like
the professional constraints she faces.

In an atmosphere where significantly tall women condition themselves to bending, slouching and feeling overtly conscious of their heights, Sukheja is an exception. It helps that her father and mother – former model Renu Sukheja, herself 5'10" – never made her feel small about her height. Reha always maintained a straight posture, basically flipping the bird to all those who encourage 'lambus' to do otherwise or say things like tall girls don't 'need' to wear heels. She also has no qualms dating shorter men – her current boyfriend is a few inches shorter. "If both of us are okay with it, I don't see why anyone else should care," she underlines.

This is the attitude parents, teachers and guardians should foster in the considerably tall instead of alienating them further, says Anjali Chhabria. Society will keep projecting its anxieties on anyone with a different body. The antidote is to be accept and be comfortable in your own skin.

How long, then, before those like Sukheja – and others of varying body types – get to play in a level field? One can only hope it won't be a wait for eternity.

Read the full article

SHE WAS bullied in her school years for towering above her classmates.

Now, Willerby woman Jessica McCubbin has had the last laugh, after shining in the Miss Beauty Curve finals in London. Jessica, 22, finished in the top ten at the pageant for plus-size women. She was also crowned Miss Publicity and Miss Top Model.

Read the full article