A man known for his continuous growth has passed away at the age of 33 due to complications related to his uncommon medical condition. Sulemana Abdul Samed, standing at 7ft 4in tall but suspected to have been taller at the time of his death, succumbed on Monday following infections in sores on his legs. Referred to as Awuche in his community of Gambaga, Ghana, he gained fame for his exceptional height that brought attention to his hometown.
Sulemana Abdul Kudus, a family member, shared, “Everyone recognized his generosity and kindness. Many people are still visiting our home seeking details about his passing.” Samed’s life took a significant turn in his early twenties when he began experiencing rapid growth. Initially working at a butcher’s shop in Accra and aiming to attend driving school, he woke up one day with a swollen tongue and breathing difficulties.
In the subsequent days, he noticed a continuous increase in his body size, leading to a curved spine and the abandonment of his aspirations to become a driver and pursue his passion for soccer. Diagnosed later with Marfan syndrome, a genetic disorder impacting the body’s connective tissues, Samed faced challenges associated with unusual height, long limbs, and heart complications.
Despite being admitted to a hospital in Tamale for infected leg sores, which were not directly linked to his syndrome but considered a secondary issue, Samed passed away. His fame not only brought recognition to his community but also resulted in support from prominent figures like John Mahama’s brother, who offered to cover his medical expenses.
With reports at one point suggesting a height of 9ft 6in, potentially making him the tallest person in history, later measurements by journalists at his residence confirmed his height at 7ft 4in. Sultan Kosen from Turkey currently holds the title of the world’s tallest living man at 8ft 3in, while the record for the tallest person ever goes to American Robert Wadlow, who stood at 8ft 11in before his death at 22 in 1940.
