The girl lived only 19 years, but her biological age was approaching 152 years (6 photos)

A girl with a rare genetic disorder that made her age eight years every year has died at the age of 19. Beandri Booysen, a resident of South Africa, shared details of her life with Hutchinson-Gilford syndrome (progeria) on social media.





This disorder is characterized by premature aging with damage to the skin, bones, and cardiovascular system.

Although Beandri was officially only 19 years old, her biological age was approaching 152 years.



There are no more than 350 cases of progeria in the world, this syndrome is diagnosed in about one in 4 million newborns.

Two months before her death, Beandri underwent open-heart surgery, she really wanted to live until December and celebrate Christmas with her family. The girl had a friend in misfortune, Ontlametse Phalatse, who died last year at the age of 18.





Bea, Beandri's mother, announced that her daughter lost her final battle for life on December 18. She thanked her daughter's followers for their love.

She said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Beandri, one of South Africa's most beloved and inspiring young women, who always radiated hope and joy. Beandri was known not only for her vibrant personality and infectious laugh, but also as the last person in South Africa to suffer from the rare genetic disorder Progeria. She inspired thousands of people around the world by her example. She never stopped fighting."



Beandri with her mother

The social media star shared in an interview earlier this year: "The syndrome has made me stronger and the person I am today. I actively use TikTok to inspire and motivate my followers, to keep them positive. My goal is to draw attention to people with special needs. I want to show that every person is unique and unrepeatable."



Beandri with her close friend Ontlametse Phalatse

Beandri is survived by her parents, 53-year-old Bea and 57-year-old Peter, and three older brothers - 23-year-old Jaco, 21-year-old Herman and 14-year-old Ruben.



Sammy Basso lived the longest with progeria. He died at the age of 28.