Michigan teenager Broc Brown is 19 years old and currently stands at 7 feet 8 inches. He normally grows about six inches a year, and will probably continue to grow for the next two years. Broc could soon become the world’s tallest man.
Broc was born with Sotos Syndrome, which is a rare genetic disorder that causes excessive growth, in the early and teenage years of life. Other symptoms of this disorder include a disproportionally large head, large hands and feet, as well as downward slanting eyes. Sotos syndrome is not a life threatening disorder, though for many years, Broc was told that he wouldn’t life to adulthood. He was recently told otherwise.
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“It’s the best thing I could have heard,” Broc said. “I’m so happy that I will live for a long time.”
Even though Broc will live a long life, it won’t be the easiest. Not only does his size make everyday activities, such as buying clothes more difficult, it also comes with other health issues. Broc was born with only one kidney, so the pain he lives with daily due to the curvature and narrowing of his spine isn’t something doctors can treat.
“It kind of feels like a big tennis racket has gone through my back,” Broc said describing his constant pain in his back. “I just wish the doctors could do something to help my pain.
Despite his struggles, his mother says that Broc is “a big teddy bear.” In the video above, it’s clear he makes friends easily, including the man who helps get him his custom made, size 28 shoes. He eventually wants to work at a sporting goods store, sharing his love of sports with those in his community.
Perhaps in a year or two, the world will get to see Broc as the world’s tallest man – he only has about seven inches left to grow for the title.
[H/T New York Post]
