A girl with a very rare genetic condition which causes rapid bodily aging has died at the age of 19 in South Africa.
Influencer Beandri Booysen had been diagnosed with something called Progeria - also known as Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) - an incredibly rare condition which affects only around one in four million babies in the world and causes children to rapidly age.
Babies born with the condition tend to appear healthy at birth, but tend to start showing signs of premature aging within the first two years of life.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, Progeria slows a person's growth rate and hampers their weight gain as well as leading to a number of other symptoms including hair loss, wrinkled skin and a loss of fat underneath the skin.
Booysen, from South Africa, had gained a significant following on social media after she and her family shared her journey with thousands of people.
However, earlier this month (18 December), her family released a statement on Facebook announcing that she had sadly died.
In the group 'Beandri, Our Inspiration', which was created by her family 15 years ago, they said: "It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Beandri Booysen, one of South Africa's most beloved and inspiring young women. Beandri was not only known for her vibrant personality and infectious laugh but also as the last surviving individual in South Africa living with Progeria – a rare genetic condition that causes children to age prematurely.
"Despite the challenges she faced, Beandri radiated hope and joy. She became a symbol of awareness for Progeria and other special needs, using her unique spirit to inspire thousands of people worldwide.
"The Booysen family kindly requests privacy during this profoundly difficult time as they mourn the loss of their beloved Beandri.
"Further details regarding the memorial service will be shared in due course."
Her mother shared on 8 October that Beandri had gone in for heart surgery and had thanked fans for their support, as per The Independent.
Many were quick to share their condolences on social media, with one person writing: "Prayers for the family for the loss of such a precious little young lady."
Another said: "Condolences to all her loved ones! She was a true inspiration."
Beandri's condition saw her body age eight years, putting her bodily age around 152 years, as per The Mirror.
While it is a genetic disease, research into Progeria indicates that it's not hereditary and instead comes from a spontaneous mutation in the LMNA gene, according to MedlinePlus.
There is no known cure for the condition, only some treatments which can help alleviate the condition.
Featured Image Credit: Beandri Our Inspiration/FacebookTopics: World News, Health
Joe Harker