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Who is Bao Xishun, you ask? You might know him as the tallest living man in the world. Bao Xishun, a mongolian herdsman was recognized in 2005 by the Guiness World Records as “The world’s tallest man alive”. He was born in Mongolia, China in 1951 and stands a reported 7′9″ tall. His family is said to be descended from the offspring of Genghis Khan, the founder of the Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368).

Bao Xishun claims to have been the same height as many kids while growing up. It wasn’t until the age of 16 when he experienced a sudden spurt of growth that shot him to his current height. Because of his abnormal height he developed rheumatism (painful conditions of muscles, tendons, joints, and bones) at a young age and is still undergoing daily medical treatments.

Bao Xishun is very shy and leads a simple life even though he is the face of several medical products, and makes a living appearing in commercials and at special media events. If you ask anyone, especially in China, he is considered a hero. Recently, a fascinating story reveals how he saved the lives of 2 dolphins by using his long arms to retrieve the plastic from their bellies at the Royal Jidi Ocean World in China. Way to go Bao!

Can you imagine what it would be like to be that tall? How could you help out? How would your life be different?