Hwange’s Giant, Big Charlie, Dies at 59
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News broke today that Big Charlie, affectionately known by locals as the giant of Hwange, has passed away at the age of 59.Mourners gathered at his residence in A 52 Lwendulu village, awaiting details regarding funeral arrangements.
Big Charlie, whose towering stature measured over 2.1 meters adn weighed approximately 300 kilograms, was a fixture in the community. His physical presence was awe-inspiring, standing just 41 centimeters shorter than Sultan Kosen, the world’s tallest man. His size 22 shoes were legendary,a testament to his immense stature.
Big Charlie’s remarkable appetite mirrored his remarkable height. He would consume meals surpassing the capacity of three ordinary individuals, effortlessly devouring an entire chicken in a single sitting. Legend has it he would drain large teapots during breakfast, demonstrating his unparalleled capacity.
Despite his imposing figure, Big Charlie was known for his gentle demeanor. Locals initially referred to him as Charles “Gumbo” due to the sheer size of his feet, believing it was part of his name. his strength, however, was undeniable. During his employment as a builder and refuse collector at Hwange Colliery company, he effortlessly carried four 50kg bags of cement, a feat unattainable for even his strongest colleagues.
Big Charlie’s extraordinary height stemmed from a rare condition known as gigantic acromegaly. This condition,characterized by abnormally high levels of growth hormone,often leads to shorter lifespans due to increased susceptibility to infections and health complications. Regrettably, this proved to be Big charlie’s reality, as his journey was tragically cut short.
Growing up, Big Charlie’s enormous feet caused significant challenges. He recalled the struggle of finding shoes that accommodated his rapidly growing feet. Initially, his mother purchased “farmer shoes,” only for him to quickly outgrow even the largest sizes.Eventually, Big Charlie’s condition led him to seek medical attention at Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare. Despite multiple tests, financial constraints prevented further examination.
big Charlie’s father, tragically, died in the Kamandama Mine Disaster, one of Zimbabwe’s worst mining accidents, which claimed the lives of 427 miners.Big Charlie’s childhood was marked by hardship, enduring the loss of his father in this devastating tragedy.
His immense stature presented unique challenges throughout his working life. Although he briefly held a position as a refuse collector at Hwange Colliery, finding suitable overalls and safety shoes proved unfeasible. Ultimately, the mine resorted to commissioning custom footwear specifically designed for Big Charlie’
Big Charlie’s life serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding rare conditions, highlighting the profound impact they have on individuals, families, and communities. While his physical presence captivated attention, it was his gentle nature, resilience, and unwavering spirit that truly defined his legacy. His passing marks a significant loss for Hwange,leaving behind a void felt deeply by all who knew him.
What was Big Charlie’s favorite food and what did it remind him of?
Remembering Big Charlie: A Gentle Giant Lost Too Soon
A tribute to Hwange’s beloved Big charlie with Dr. Amina Neda,Medical Anthropologist,and long-time friend of Big Charlie.
Growing up Giant
Archyde (A): Dr. Neda, you knew Big Charlie as his childhood. How was his experience growing up with gigantic acromegaly?
Dr. Amina Neda (AN): Growing up,Big Charlie faced numerous challenges. His feet grew rapidly, making it difficult to find shoes that fit. He recalled his mother struggling to find ‘farmer shoes’ large enough for him. Despite these challenges, he remained resilient and playful, always finding ways to adapt and overcome his circumstances.
The Impact of Loss
A: Losing his father in the kamandama Mine disaster must have been unimaginably hard. how did this tragedy shape Big Charlie’s life?
AN: The loss of his father had a profound impact on Big Charlie. It instilled in him a deep sense of resilience and understanding of hardship from a young age. He faced life’s challenges head-on, never allowing his circumstances to define him. This loss also strengthened his bond with the Hwange community,making him a protector and a source of comfort for those around him.
Big Charlie’s Gentle nature
A: Despite his immense stature, Big Charlie was known for his kindness and gentle demeanor. Can you share any anecdotes that illustrate this?
AN: Oh, there are so many. Once, I saw him carrying a tiny puppy that had wandered into his garden. He held it gently in his massive hands, its entire body fitting in just one of his palms. He cared for it,fed it,and eventually found it a loving home. that was Big Charlie – always ready to lend a helping hand, no matter how big or small the task.
The Legacy of a Gentle Giant
A: Big Charlie’s passing has left a critically important void in Hwange. What do you think his legacy will be?
AN: Big charlie’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched. He taught us to embrace our differences, to find strength in kindness, and to never let adversity define us.His story serves as a poignant reminder that true greatness is not measured in stature, but in character.I believe his spirit will continue to inspire the people of Hwange for generations to come.
Closer to Home
A: Lastly, Dr. Neda, what is one thing about Big Charlie that you’d like our readers to know?
AN: Despite his famous appetite, Big Charlie had a particular fondness for something simple – his mother’s homemade chicken soup. It was his comfort food, reminding him of home and the love that nurtured him. This reminder that even the strongest of men have their soft spots, is something I want everyone to remember about Big Charlie.
