- Beandri Booysen, a South African TikTok star, has passed away at the age of 19.
- She battled progeria, a rare genetic disorder that accelerated her aging process.
- The content creator’s mother, Bea Booysen, has confirmed the passing of her daughter.
- The announcement was made in a Facebook group that is dedicated to the content creator.
South African TikTok personality Beandri Booysen has passed away following a brave struggle with progeria, a rare genetic disorder that accelerated her aging process, causing her to age eight years for every year of her life. She was 19 years old.
Her mother, Bea Booysen, confirmed the news in a Facebook group dedicated to her daughter.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Beandri Booysen, one of South Africa’s most beloved and inspirational young women,” the bereaved parent wrote.
“Beandri was not only known for her vibrant personality and infectious laugh but also as the last surviving individual in South Africa living with the rare genetic condition progeria.”
Bea added, “She became a symbol of awareness for progeria and other special needs children using her unique spirit to inspire thousands of people worldwide. She never stopped fighting.”
In the months leading up to her death, the teenager, who weighed only 26 pounds, had successfully undergone open-heart surgery and was eagerly anticipating the holiday season with her family.
Before her passing, Beandri had garnered over 269,200 followers on TikTok, where she regularly posted uplifting content. Some of her most popular videos featured her lip-syncing to various pop songs while wearing a blonde wig.
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome is a genetic disorder marked by rapid aging and osteoporosis, which results in fragile bones that are susceptible to fractures.
Beandri was among only 200 individuals worldwide affected by progeria and was the last person to succumb to the condition in South Africa.