Teen with progeria dies at 18
The Presidency has confirmed that 18-year-old Ontlametse Phalatse, one of the two young South African women living with Progeria, has died.
Progeria, also known as Hutchinson-Gilford progeria Syndrome (HGPS), is a rare genetic condition that causes a child’s body to age fast.
Most kids with progeria do not live past the age of 13.
The Presidency invited Phalatse to meet with the president on the eve of her 18th birthday last month.
President Jacob Zuma says he was impressed by her sharp intellect and warm personality.
"Our lives were most touched by meeting Ontlametse last month. She was very special indeed. I was impressed by her sharp intellect, warm personality, brilliant ideas and her determination to use her condition to motivate others that they can achieve their goals regardless of any challenges. A brave young fighter has fallen. May her spirit inspire all others living with disabilities or facing any difficulty, to soldier on as she did and live life to the fullest? We are really proud of her. We wish to convey our utmost condolences to her mother, her whole family and the Ontlametse Phalatse Trust for this sad loss. May her soul rest in eternal peace," says Zuma.
Her biggest dream was to be a psychologist