Beandri Booysen’s life showed how strong, loving, and positive a person can be. Even though she dealt with a rare and sad illness, she spread happiness that affected many people. Sadly, her journey ended just days before Christmas.
Beandri left us at the young age of 19, but her story will keep inspiring everyone who learns about it.
Born in South Africa, Beandri was diagnosed with Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome when she was only seven months old. This rare genetic condition makes the body age eight times faster than usual.
The chances of being born with progeria are 1 in 4 million, and there are less than 400 kids and young adults around the world who have this condition. Doctors thought Beandri wouldn’t make it past her early teens. But Beandri had different ideas.
A life lived to the fullest
From the time she could talk, Beandri wouldn’t let her condition control her life. She only weighed 12 kilograms (26 pounds) and showed the effects of the disease, but her spirit was boundless.
She went to school, wanted to be a teacher, and even dreamed of a future where she would get married and have twins. She was set on living like any other teenager, enjoying every single moment.
On social media, Beandri discovered her voice. Her TikTok account, where she shared motivational videos and honest looks into her life, quickly attracted almost 300,000 followers.
Her motto, “Be yourself. Love yourself. Believe in yourself,” connected with people all over the world. Through her posts, she not only shared her own experiences but also taught others about progeria, spreading awareness and kindness.
A mother’s heartbreak
Just weeks after celebrating her 19th birthday, Booysen encountered a sudden health crisis.
”Please pray. Beandri’s heart stopped,” her mother, Bea, posted on Wednesday. “They are trying to make her heart beat again. Please pray.”
On December 18, Beandri’s mother announced that her daughter had passed away.
Her message, filled with both sadness and pride, described Beandri as a “vibrant personality” and the “last surviving person in South Africa with progeria.”
“She was a voice and a symbol of awareness for Progeria and other special needs,” Bea wrote. “She never stopped fighting.”
Tributes quickly started pouring in on TikTok as news of her death spread.
”Rest In Peace my sweet friend. I will miss you a lot,” someone shared.
Many others shared their sorrow, sending heartfelt condolences to Beandri’s family and loved ones.
Her lasting, final message
Beandri’s life was far too short, but she used her time on this earth to remind us all of what truly matters. She taught us to live fully, to love fiercely, and to appreciate the beauty in every day. Her infectious laugh, her fearless optimism, and her determination to help others will never be forgotten.
Although her family has asked for privacy during this difficult time, one thing is certain: Beandri’s light will continue to shine through the many lives she touched.
As we hold her story close, let it be a reminder to treasure the moments we have and to live with the same bravery and joy that Beandri did every single day.
