Stitchnripper

Don't know if this is an option but Alex Anderson taught herself to hand quilt using her thumb. I think there are videos out there of her demonstrating.

ManiacQuilter2

I use straw needles since they wee the longest I could find. They do bend easily as mentioned above.

EasyPeezy

I can't sew with those tiny needles either. Need the long ones.
Roxanne basting needles are a smidge more than 2.25 inches.
Or you could try John James Milliners #3 or 4.