TikTok superstar Beandri Booysen dies aged 19 losing battle to make it to Christmas while fighting super-aging disease
The teenager went through an open-heart surgery just two months ago
TIKTOK star Beandri Booysen has tragically died at the age of 19 after battling a super-aging disease.
Beandri was not expected to live past 14 but refused to give up and became an internet sensation.
Just two months ago, the teenager underwent an open-heart surgery – and was determined to enjoy Christmas with her parents.
She was born with the rare disease called Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome which causes fast ageing in children and also suffered from osteoporosis which makes bones brittle and break.
Only one in 4 million babies are born with the incurable defect and Beandri was just one of 200 known sufferers in the world.
Beandri’s mum Bea confirmed that she had lost her battle for life yesterday and thanked all her fans worldwide for “loving her deeply”.
She said: “It is with deep 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 for her vibrant personality and infectious laugh and as the last surviving individual in South Africa living with the rare genetic condition Progeria.
“She became a symbol of awareness for Progeria and other special needs children using her unique spirit to inspire thousands worldwide. She never stopped fighting”.
With an incredible 269,200 followers on TikTok, Beandri said she wanted to raise more awareness about the rare disease and inspire other people going through tough times.
She said in an interview earlier this year: “I’ve been living with Progeria since birth and I am used to it and I’ve learned over the years to deal with all the challenges and surgery.
“I face everything that God brings into my life and I credit my family for my strength and support by raising me as a “normal” child and not one to be seen as different to others.
“This made me stronger and the person I am today. I have a large TikTok presence to try and inspire and motivate those who follow me and keep them positive every single day.
“My goal is to raise awareness about other special needs individuals and show that everyone is different and unique in their own way and to give strength if I can.”
Mum Bea said a memorial service will be held to celebrate her life.
The average life expectancy of people fighting progeria is 14 years and only a few make it into their twenties.
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