South African girl with rare aging condition passes away
Beandri Booysen, a teen with progeria, inspired many with her courage and strength.
Born with a rare genetic condition, Beandri defied all odds to live a life filled with love, laughter, and resilience. Her passing, just days before Christmas, has left a global community mourning the loss of a bright light.
Beandri Booysen was only seven months old when she was diagnosed with Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome, a rare condition that causes the body to age eight times faster than normal. The odds of being born with this genetic disorder are staggering—1 in 4 million—and fewer than 400 people worldwide live with it today.
Doctors gave her a grim prognosis, expecting her life to end before her teenage years. But Beandri had other plans.
Despite weighing just 12 kilograms (26 pounds) and enduring the physical effects of progeria, Beandri lived with an indomitable spirit. She dreamed of becoming a teacher, imagined a future with a husband and twins, and embraced every moment with joy.
Her positivity found a global platform on TikTok, where nearly 300,000 followers watched her share motivational messages and glimpses of her daily life. Her motto—“Be yourself. Love yourself. Believe in yourself.”—resonated deeply with her audience.
Through her videos, Beandri raised awareness about progeria and inspired compassion in others. She refused to let her condition define her and showed the world what true strength looks like.
A family’s heartbreak
Just weeks after celebrating her 19th birthday, Beandri experienced a sudden health crisis. On December 18, her mother, Bea, shared the devastating news that her daughter had passed away.
“She was vibrant, determined, and the last surviving person in South Africa with progeria,” Bea wrote in an emotional message. “She was a voice and a symbol of awareness for Progeria and other special needs.”
Condolences poured in on social media as news of Beandri’s passing spread. Friends, followers, and fans expressed their sorrow, with one person writing, “Rest in peace, my sweetheart friend. I will miss you a lot.”
Beandri’s life, though short, was an extraordinary example of resilience, kindness, and hope. She taught the world to live with gratitude, love deeply, and cherish every day.
Her story continues to inspire countless people to face their challenges with courage. Beandri’s light may have dimmed, but the warmth of her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched.
As her family grieves this profound loss, we are reminded to honor Beandri’s legacy by embracing life as she did—with bravery, joy, and an unwavering belief in the power of love.
